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CATNIP.TXT
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1995-02-09
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CATNIP
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CULTIVATION:
Catnip is a strong smelling, gray-green perennial with heart shaped,
gently toothed leaves. Grows to 3 feet in height. Flowers are white,
dotted with purple.
Catnip needs a sunny or light shady location. The soil should be well
drained. Sow or divide whole plant in spring. Germination time is about 8
days, and plant matures in 50 days. Grows in zone 3-10. Thin and
transplant to 12 inches apart, and cut back in autumn. The scent released
by any bruised leafs or root will attract cats, who then molest the plant.
Harvest the leaves and flower tops in late summer when plants are in
bloom. Dry leaves and store in opaque, tightly sealed container to
preserve the volatile oil.
CULINARY USES:
Catnip possesses a disagreeable mint like aroma. Rub leaves on meat to
flavor. Moderate amounts of fresh catnip leaves can be added to salads, to
give it a minty like flavor.
GRAPEFRUIT AND CATMINT DESSERT : Skin off 2 medium grapefruit rind thinly,
taking care to avoid the white pith. Put into blender. Remove pith and
discard. Coarsely chop the grapefruit flesh and add to blender with 4
ounces of caster sugar, 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh catmint, and 1 1/2
pint of cold water. Blend until the mixture is light green. Strain into
stemmed glasses and refrigerate until well chilled. Garnish with a red
currant leaf or a sprig of catmint.
MEDICAL USES:
Catnip has a considerable reputation as a sedative drink, especially when
the dried, minty-flavored leaves and flowering tops are brewed into a hot
tea and taken at bedtime. It also soothes the digestive tract or suppresses
menstrual cramps. Infusion can also relieve colds and fever. Catnip
induces sleep and perspiration, but does not increase body temperature. Do
not boil catnip. Boiling dissipates its healing oil.
CATNIP TEA : Stir about 2 teaspoons into a pot of hot water, you can also
add some lemon balm for flavor. Let it steep for 10-20 in minutes. Because
of the volatile nature of catnip, a simple and quick infusion should be
made. The parts used are the flowering tops gathered in August.
Externally it may be applied to cuts, abrasions and bruises. Some research
shows that catnip has antibiotic properties.
WARNING:
Generally regarded as safe, for healthy nonpregnant, nonnursing adults.
OTHER USES:
Plant catnip near vegetables to deter flea beetles. Use catnip tea
compression on the forehead to release pressure from the eye, and to
overcome the pain of bee stings. Catnip will attract bees to your garden.
Cat lovers can use this herb to make a toy for their pet.