Dried Catnip Leaf
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a member of the mint family.
Catnip got its name because of its affect on cats. Cats are most interested in the smell of the plant and will rub against, bite, chew, and roll in catnip. This action will release the volatile oil (nepetalactone) trapped in the leaves, causing the cat to lose interest and walk away. Often a cat will return two hours later and repeat the process! The cat's attraction to
Catnip is a reflex and a small percentage of cats are totally unaffected by it, even tigers can be sensitive to it.
The
Catnip Plant is a native of Europe. Other names include
Catmint,
Catnep,
Catswort,
Field Balm,
Menta De Gato.
Catnip has been used in herbal remedies on humans since at least the 15th century. It was the most commonly consumed as an herbal drink in Europe before teas from the orient began to be imported.
By the 1890’s, Ojibwe native women were using it. It had a Native name,
Gajugensibug, and was said to be a good tea to drink to bring down fevers, as well as being pleasant-tasting. As an herbal treatment,
Catnip soothes the stomach and digestive system. This means it aids with flatulence, diarrhea, and colic. As an enema it can cleanse and heal the lower bowel. Taken as a hot infusion,
Catnip promotes sweating and this helps with colds, flu, fevers, and infectious diseases. It is soothing to the nervous system and can help to prevent a miscarriage, premature birth and to decrease symptoms of morning sickness.
When fully grown, it grows to 2' tall. The leaves are slightly larger than peppermint leaves.
Catnip is harvested when its essential oil production reaches its peak.. The leaves and fragrant flowers are then carefully dried to preserve these oils.
USDA Certified Organic
As with any herb or supplement, a physician should be consulted prior to use.
Also available:
Catnip Seeds
Lemon Catnip Seeds
Japanese Catnip Seeds
Valerian Seeds
