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Catnip
Nepeta cataria (see fassenii at the
end)
Catnip likes to grow in well-drained, rich soil, in part-sun or light shade,
like most mints, in which family it is included. The genus name Nepeta
likely came from the town in Rome called Nepeti, where it was valued as a
seasoning and medicinal herb. To harvest the herb, you can gather the leaves
and flowers at any stage of growth. It is then preserved by hanging in an
airy, shady place to completely dry.
USES ~
~ Culinary
The leaf was used as a tea before Camellia sinensis (commonly known as
“green tea” or “black tea) became so popular. Rub leaves on meat as a
flavoring, or make a vinegar with the catnip and marinade the meat. Young
shoots can be added to your salad.
~ Household
The whole plant attracts honeybees (encouraging honey). The dry leaf is made
into stuffed toys for your pets to play with - can be very entertaining.
Catnip scent repels rats.
~ Garden
Plant near vegetables (and other herbs, if necessary) to deter flea beetles.
~ Medicinal
The leaves and flowering top contain vitamin C. The infusion (tea) relieves:
colds and fever, restlessness and colic in children, headaches and upset
stomach. Because it has such a pleasant taste, and is so gentle, it is
suitable to treat colds, flu and fever in children. Catnip gets rid of gas
and indigestion, and headaches related to digestive problems. It is a mild
sedative, and applied
externally, soothes scalp irritations. To heal bruises quickly, mash the
leaves and flowering tops, to apply as a poultice. A tincture is a good
friction rub for rheumatic and arthritic joints. Made into
an ointment, catnip treats hemorrhoids. The hybrid fassenii is commonly
known as “catmint“. It is used mostly as an ornamental in gardens. It has
less effect on cats, and has no medicinal properties. Nepeta fassenii is
said to adapt well to growing inside, in a full-sun window.
(some information obtained from "The Complete Book of Herbs“, by Leslie
Bremness, from “The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants” by Andrew Chevallier,
and from “Encyclopedia of Herbs” by Deni Brown)
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