Catnip

Catnip is a perennial herb that is part of the mint family. It grows 3-5 feet tall and its branches are covered in hair with oblong scalloped leaves. It flowers are white with purple and are seen from June through September.

Catnip originates from Europe, Asia and Africa. Settlers brought it to North America. It has long since naturalized throughout the continent and grows quite prevalent. Catnip grows best in full sun but can easily tolerate partial shade. It also does well in almost any soil type. Catnip is easy to grow and propagate, be it from seed or root division. It grows well in planters, pots, window boxes and gardens. The catnip leaves and flowers are harvested in July and September and should be dried in the sun. They are best stored in paper bags.

Catnip can be used as a spice to flavour soups and stews. It has an unusual yet lovely flavour.  For humans, it is mostly used as an herbal tea to help many health issues. Some enjoy a little lemon and/or honey in their catnip tea.

Catnip has anti-spasmodic, diaphoretic, carminative and astringent properties and is also a mild sedative. It has many old folk remedy uses. Teas can be made from it to help with digestive upsets and gas, spasms, colic, bronchitis, colds, headaches, morning sickness and a sleep aid. It has also been used to treat enema and to help detoxify the body. Catnip is said to also help with cancer.

Catnip is considered an aphrodisiac for cats. However it is estimated that 15-20% of cats do not even respond to it. This seems to be a genetic trait in the cat. As catnip triggers sexual behaviour in cats, most kittens, below six months of age, will not respond to it.  Cats do not eat catnip, it is the scent that affects them. The big cats like lions and tigers also enjoy catnip.

Not all catnip is equal. Every plant has different levels of potency. Furthermore, how the catnip is processed, dried and preserved makes a difference on its potency levels. Most commercial catnip is not the highest quality as much as its potency is lost while it is being processed, stored and shipped. Once the catnip leaves have lost its color and/or scent it is no longer suitable for use in cooking, herbal remedies or for cats. Catnip is easy to grow, even for those living in apartments. The best catnip is that. that you grow yourself.

Freshly harvested catnip

I was told by an experienced herbologist that catnip should be harvested pre flowering for medicinal purposes and after flowering for cats. The pic above shows catnip harvested after flowering. 

Dried and cleaned catnip