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CATNIP.TXT
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1994-04-04
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CATNIP ==========================
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 amount 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
soothe 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 is 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.