Description
TOP BENEFITS
*Relaxation
*Sleep Aid
*Antibacterial
COMMON USES
- Catnip has a mild sedative effect that can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
- Catnip has a mild digestive effect that can aid in alleviating indigestion or upset stomachs.
- The calming effect of catnip can be beneficial for those with anxiety. Drinking catnip tea or taking supplements may promote relaxation and alleviate anxiety symptoms.
- Catnip contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be helpful for those with inflammation-related conditions such as arthritis or allergies.
COMMON NAMES
Catmint
Catswort
Field Balm
Cataria
TOP NUTRIENTS Daily Value %
(1 cup Catnip Leaves)
Calcium, Ca: 3.3mg (0.33%)
Manganese, Mn: 0.02mg (0.87%)
Iron, Fe: 0.15mg (1.88%)
Vitamin A, RAE: 5.1µg (0.73%)
Vitamin K (phylloquinone): 0.5µg (0.42%)
Catnip
BENEFITS
Stress and Axiety Relief
Sleep Aid
Known for its sedative effects, catnip can assist in improving sleep quality. Drinking catnip tea before bedtime may help alleviate insomnia and promote restful sleep. This traditional remedy is often utilized for its mild tranquilizing effects.
Digestive Aid
Headache and Migraine Relief
Anti-inflammatory
Menstrual Cramp Relief
Respiratory Health
Insect Repellent
Digestive Health
Skin Health
Disclaimer:
This information is based on traditional uses and some scientific studies. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new herbal treatment, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are on medication. This guide is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
How-To’s
- Herb Oil Overview
- Catnip Tea
- Catnip Decoction
- Catnip Tinture
- Catnip Cream
- Catnip Poultice
- Catnip Oil (Alcohol Method)
- Catnip Oil (Sun Method)
- Catnip Oil (Heat Infused Method)
- Catnip Oil (Oven Method)
Introduction to Herbal Oils
Herbalism is a fascinating and vast world. . . and, at times, intimidating! Making tinctures using the percolation method or making your own mead can seem daunting to those new to the botanical arts. That’s why, when we’re trying to help a friend get started in herbs without overwhelming them, one of our favourite herbalism projects for beginners is making herb-infused oils.
Simply infusing a carrier oil with herbs makes it a versatile ingredient. There are several methods for infusing oils, but our favourite is the “folk” or “simplers” method, which relies on the sun to naturally infuse oil with herbal properties.
Many different organic carrier oils can be used, but fractionated (MCT) coconut oil and olive oil are popular and wise choices due to their long shelf lives and suitability for a wide range of applications. Herbal oils can be used to make marinades, massage oils, salves, lip balms, facial serums, hair treatments, body creams, soaps, and a variety of other products.
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- While most herbs can be infused either dried or fresh (with proper preparation), some are better suited to one than the other. St. John’s wort, for example, is widely thought to require fresh material to produce an effective herbal oil.
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- Herbal oils can go rancid or mouldy if the carrier oil isn’t very shelf stable (like rosehip seed oil) or if fresh herbs are used. To ensure safety, infused oils that change colour, scent, clarity, or taste should be discarded. Using the alcohol intermediary infusion method or adding a preservative such as vitamin E can help keep oils stable for longer, but it also renders them unfit for consumption.
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- Herbs containing natural dyes can be infused in oil and used to colour soaps and other body care formulations.
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- Wear gloves when straining a finished herbal oil through a cheesecloth-lined strainer and squeezing out any remaining oil in the herbs. While you can work with oils with your bare hands, it is a messy process, and certain herbs, such as turmeric, may temporarily stain your hands and jewellery.
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- Often, the oil will not wash out of cheesecloth or muslin, so strain with something you won’t reuse.
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- Fine herb sediment can make oil a little gritty even after straining; if this bothers you, strain again through a coffee filter. This is a slow-drip process that may necessitate the use of more than one coffee filter to strain all of the oil.
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- Herbs can be combined to make synergistic infusions. For example, hops flowers, lavender flowers, and chamomile flowers infused in jojoba oil make a wonderful relaxing massage blend. Mix and match to meet your specific requirements!
Nettle Leaf Tea
Equipment
- 1 Strainer
Method
- Bring 500ml of fresh spring water to a boil in a pot or kettle
- Pour boiling water on 1-2 Tablespoons of Dry Nettle leave cut and sifted or 1 cup of fresh Nettle leaves
- Let steep for 9 Minutes
- You may steep longer for a stronger potency
Nettle Leaf Decoction
Ingredients
- 1-2 Tbsp Nettle Leaf
- Spring Water
Equipment
- pot
Method
- Place 1-3 tablespoons of dried herbs into a small sauce pan.
- Cover the herbs with a quart of cold water.
- Bring the water to a simmer.
- Cover Pot and allow to gently simmer for 20 to 45 minutes.
- Strain into a quart jar or cup.
Nettle Leaf Tincture
Ingredients
- 6 oz Overproof Alcohol (Organic Cane 190 proof Alcohol) 5 oz for dried leaves
- 9 oz Fresh Nettle leaves or 6 oz if using dried nettle leaves
- 3 oz Distilled Water 5 oz of Distilled Water if using dried nettle leaves
Equipment
- pot
- 12 once mason jar
- cheese cloth
- Dropper Bottle
Method
- Mix Alcohol and Distilled water in a glass container6 oz Overproof Alcohol (Organic Cane 190 proof Alcohol), 3 oz Distilled Water
- If using fresh nettle leaves rinse and slightly macerate9 oz Fresh Nettle leaves
- Add Nettle leaves to mason jar
- Pour in the diluted organic Alcohol mixture to the top of the mason jar
- Close mason jar tight and shake
- Place mason jar in a cool dry place for at least 2-3 weeks.
- Shake jar every few days
- Once completed strain out the nettle leaves with cheesecloth
- Pour remaining tincture into droppler bottle. Store, Label and Date
Nettle Leaf Salve (Cream/Balm)
Equipment
- Double Boiler
- Glass Jar
- Salve Container (Glass,Tin, Balm Tubes etc.)
Method
- Wrap an old towel around the beeswax bar. On a sturdy surface use a hammer to break the beeswax into small chunks.
- Using a double boiler, gently warm the beeswax over low heat until it melts.
- Stir in the herbal oils over low heat until well-mixed.
- Remove the oil from heat and add the essential oil(s).
- Quickly pour the warm mixture into the prepared tins, glass jars, or lip balm tubes and set aside to cool fully.
- Store in a cool location for 1 to 3 years.
Nettle Leaf Poultice (herbal paste)
Ingredients
- Nettle Leaf Fresh or Dried Herb
- Spring Water
- coconut Oil Optional
- Natural Clay (bentonite clay) Optional
- Activated Charcoal Optional
Equipment
- Muslin
- Pestle & Mortar
- Blender
Method
- . Pick leaves and brush off insects and dirt. Rinse leaves.
Fresh Herbs
- Chop Fresh (scissors) and crush the herbs using Pestle and Mortor.
- Add a little water to create a pulp or paste
- Can add Oil / Clay / Charcoal to thicken Paste (optional)
- Blend Dry herbs/roots in blender (can also use fresh herbs)
Dry Herbs
- Put dry herbs and roots in blender
- Blend on high and add a freshly boiled water to create a paste
- May also add coconut oil / clay / Activated Charcoal
- Spread the herb paste onto a layer of muslin that is twice the size of the area of skin to be treated. Like a sandwich, fold the muslin over the herb.
Application
- Apply the muslin with the herb paste directly to the affected area, tie with muslin strips, leave on for 30 minutes or more. Change and repeat if needed.
- You can r use these poultices fresh or store them in your freezer.
- Place a piece of wax paper between each poultice when freezing to make it easier to separate them later. Put your poultices in a plastic gallon freezer bag to keep them safe.
Nettle Leaf Oil (Alcohol Method)
Ingredients
- Nettle Leaf In most circumstances It is best to use dry herbs when making infused oil. The moisture from fresh roots can spoil the oil.
- Carrier Oil ( Avocado Oil,Walnut Oil, Olive Oil, Argan Oil etc.) Olive Oil is the most coming used oil but research the best oil for you or your product.
Equipment
- Blender
- Cheesecloth see notes at bottom
- Mesh Strainer see notes at bottom
- Gloves
- Mesh Strainer
- Glass Bowl
Method
Oil Infusion Alcohol Method
- Weigh out approximately 1 oz. dried organic herb(s).
- Using a blender, coffee grinder, or bullet grinder, grind into coarse powder (don’t grind too fine, or it will be difficult to strain later).
- Transfer ground herbs into clean jar with tight fitting lid.
- Measure out ½ oz. whole grain alcohol (like Everclear) or an organic overproof cane alcohol of your choosing .
- Pour alcohol into jar with ground herbs.
- Use a fork to work together, or put lid on and shake to disperse the alcohol through herb material—it should be the consistency of nice soil or damp beach sand.
- Set aside for at least 24 hours to allow the herbs to macerate in alcohol.
- Put damp herb material into a standing blender.
- Add approximately 8 oz. of carrier oil, measured by volume or weight. Add more as necessary to cover well and ensure herbs are moving around in blender.
- Blend until blender jar is warm to the touch, about 5 minutes.
- Place a good-sized mesh strainer over heat-safe glass bowl. Line strainer with cheesecloth or fine muslin.
- Pour herb-infused oil through lined strainer and use the cheesecloth or muslin to squeeze out as much of the oil as possible from herbs.
- Oil should keep a year or more when stored in cool, dark, dry place.
CHEESECLOTH- Because cheesecloth is a cotton fabric, you'll probably find that most other types of cotton work just as well. Whether it's a flour sack towel, muslin, or a random scrap of fabric, you'll probably find it to be a suitable substitute. There are many other alternatives you can research.on google or youtube.[/adjustable]
MESH STRAINER-Can be used with cheesecloth (or alternative) to pressure squeeze oil.
Nettle Leaf Oil ( Natural Method)
Ingredients
- Nettle Leaf In most circumstances It is best to use dry herbs when making infused oil. The moisture from fresh herbs can spoil the oil.
- Carrier Oil ( Avocado Oil,Walnut Oil, Olive Oil, Argan Oil etc.) Olive Oil is the most coming used oil but research the best oil for you or your product.
Equipment
- Cheesecloth see notes at bottom
- Mesh Strainer see notes at bottom
- Gloves
- Mesh Strainer
Method
Oil Infusion Sun Method
- First Make sure your quart jar is clean and dry jar.
- Put dry herbs in a clean glass quart jar. Leave a minimum of 1 to 3 inches of space above your herbs so that oil can be applied.
- With the remaining space in the jar, add your preferred oil, making sure to completely cover the herbs (at least 1 inch). Pour more oil on top to ensure the herbs stay covered if at any point during the infusion the herbs start to rise above the oil's surface.
- Cap the jar tightly and shake well.
- Place jar in a sunny, warm windowsill and shake once or more per day.
- Strain the herbs from the oil after 2 to 3 weeks using cheesecloth or a mesh strainer. Make sure to extract as much precious oil as possible.
- Pour into clean glass bottles.
- Label your jars with the date, type of oil, and herbs used.
- Store in a cool, dark place. The oil may keep for up to a year. To extend the shelf life of topically applied oils, vitamin E oil at a concentration of up to 1% may be added.
CHEESECLOTH- Because cheesecloth is a cotton fabric, you'll probably find that most other types of cotton work just as well. Whether it's a flour sack towel, muslin, or a random scrap of fabric, you'll probably find it to be a suitable substitute. There are many other alternatives you can research.on google or youtube.
MESH STRAINER-Can be used with cheesecloth (or alternative) to pressure squeeze oil.
Nettle Leaf Oil
Ingredients
- 1 cup Dried Nettle Leaf Always use dry herbs — fresh nettle holds moisture that will spoil the oil.
- 2 cups Carrier Oil Avocado, Walnut, Olive, or Argan. Olive oil is most widely used.
- 1 tsp Vitamin E Oil (optional) Up to 1% concentration extends the shelf life of topical oils.
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pot or double boiler — see notes
- Kitchen thermometer essential for temperature control
- Cheesecloth or cotton substitute — see notes
- Mesh Strainer use with cheesecloth
- Protective gloves nettle can irritate skin
- Sterilized glass bottles dark amber preferred
Method
Oil Infusing Method using Stove
- PREPARE YOUR HERBSPut dry herbs in a clean pot. Leave a minimum of 1 to 3 inches of space above your herbs so that your carrier oil can be applied.
- ADD CARRIER OILAdd carrier oil. Make sure to fully cover herbs by at least an inch.
- HEAT & INFUSEGently heat the herbs over very low heat (preferably between 100° and 140° F) for 1 to 5 hours, until the oil takes on the color and scent of the herb. Some sources advise heating the oil for 48 to 72 hours at a controlled temperature of 100° F. (you may use double boiler if available).
- COOL DOWNTurn off heat and allow to cool.
- STRAIN THE OILOnce oil is cooled, strain using cheesecloth and or mesh strainer.
- BOTTLE YOUR OILPour oil into sterilized. glass bottles then seal.
- LABEL YOUR BOTTLESBefore storing your bottles, mark them with the date and contents.
- STORE IT WELLStore in a cool, dark place. The oil may keep for up to a year. To extend the shelf life of topically applied oils, vitamin E oil at a concentration of up to 1% may be added.
Preparation Notes
Double Boiler
Using a heatproof mixing bowl on top of a pot of simmering water is one of the most common double boiler substitutes. Make sure there is enough space between the mixing bowl and the simmering water — the bowl should not touch the water.Cheesecloth
Because cheesecloth is a cotton fabric, most other cottons work just as well. A flour sack towel, muslin, or a clean scrap of fabric all make suitable substitutes.Mesh Strainer
Can be used with cheesecloth (or an alternative) to press the last of the oil out.Nettle Leaf Oil (Oven Method)
Ingredients
- Nettle Leaf In most circumstances It is best to use dry herbs when making infused oil. The moisture from fresh herbs can spoil the oil.
- Carrier Oil ( Avocado Oil,Walnut Oil, Olive Oil, Argan Oil etc.) Olive Oil is the most coming used oil but research the best oil for you or your product.
Equipment
- Cheesecloth see notes at bottom
- Mesh Strainer see notes at bottom
- Gloves
- Mesh Strainer
Method
Oven Method
- Put fresh or dried herbs in a glass quart jar and cover with your preferred oil. Make sure to completely cover the herbs (at least 1 inch)
- Screw lid on glass jar tight
- Place the glass jar in a pan add water to cover the jar halfway.
- Place the pan with the jar in the oven and bake for 4 to 5 hours on the lowest setting.
- Check on your oil periodically to ensure it isn’t burning or scorching (i.e., smoking)
- Turn off heat and allow to cool.
- Once oil is cooled, strain using cheesecloth and or mesh strainer.
- Pour oil into sterilized glass bottles then seal.
- Before storing your bottles, mark them with the date and contents.
- Store in a cool, dark place. The oil may keep for up to a year. To extend the shelf life of topically applied oils, vitamin E oil at a concentration of up to 1% may be added.
CHEESECLOTH- Because cheesecloth is a cotton fabric, you'll probably find that most other types of cotton work just as well. Whether it's a flour sack towel, muslin, or a random scrap of fabric, you'll probably find it to be a suitable substitute. There are many other alternatives you can research.on google or youtube
ÂMESH STRAINER-Can be used with cheesecloth (or alternative) to pressure squeeze oil.
USES
Anxiety Relief
Catnip’s calming properties may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup up to three times daily as needed for anxiety relief.
Cold Symptom Relief
Catnip may help alleviate symptoms of the common cold, such as congestion and cough.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup two to three times daily until symptoms improve.
Digestive Aid
Catnip can soothe the digestive tract, helping to relieve indigestion, cramping, and gas.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 1 teaspoon of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup after meals as needed for digestive relief.
Fever Reduction
Catnip’s diaphoretic properties may help induce sweating, aiding in fever reduction.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup every few hours until fever subsides.
Immune Support
Catnip’s antioxidants may boost the immune system and aid in fighting infections.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 1 teaspoon of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup daily for immune support.
Insect Repellent
Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound that naturally repels mosquitoes and other insects.
Preparation (Oil)
Infuse dried catnip leaves in a carrier oil (like olive oil) for 2 weeks, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Apply the oil to exposed skin before going outdoors.
Insomnia Relief
Catnip’s sedative effects may promote better sleep and help alleviate insomnia.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup 30 minutes before bedtime.
Menstrual Cramp Relief
Catnip may help alleviate menstrual cramps due to its antispasmodic properties.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup twice daily during menstrual discomfort.
Muscle Spasms
Catnip’s antispasmodic properties can help relax muscles and reduce spasms.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 1 teaspoon of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup as needed to reduce muscle spasms.
Nausea Relief
Catnip may soothe nausea and calm an upset stomach.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 1 teaspoon of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup at the onset of nausea.
Nervous System Support
Catnip’s calming effects may help reduce nervous system tension and ease symptoms of mild nervous disorders.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup once daily for ongoing support.
Oral Health
Catnip’s antimicrobial and astringent properties can help reduce oral inflammation and prevent infections in the mouth.
Preparation (Mouth Rinse)
Steep 2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water, let cool, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Rinse your mouth twice daily after brushing.
Pain Relief
Catnip’s natural analgesic properties may help alleviate mild pain, including headaches and muscle discomfort.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 1 teaspoon of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup as needed for pain relief.
Relaxing Bath Additive
Catnip-infused baths can promote relaxation and soothe irritated skin.
Preparation (Tea Bath)
Steep 1 cup of dried catnip in 4 cups of boiling water, strain, and add to bathwater.
Dosage & Duration
Soak for 20–30 minutes as needed.
Sedative Effects
Catnip is known for its mild sedative effects, helping with stress and sleep disorders.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 1 teaspoon of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup in the evening before bedtime.
Stress Relief
Catnip can soothe skin irritations, including bug bites and mild rashes.
Preparation (Poultice)
Crush fresh catnip leaves and apply directly to the irritated area.
Dosage & Duration
Apply as needed until irritation subsides.
Skin Irritation (bites)
Catnip may help reduce symptoms of stress and promote a sense of calm.
Preparation (Tea)
Steep 1 teaspoon of dried catnip leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Dosage & Duration
Drink 1 cup as needed during periods of stress.
Toothache
The root may aid in improving respiratory health, particularly in conditions like colds and bronchitis. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce respiratory inflammation.
Preparation
Prepare burdock root tea.
Dosage & Duration
Drink twice daily during respiratory symptoms.
Wound Healing
Catnip’s antiseptic properties can aid in cleaning wounds and supporting tissue repair.
Preparation (Wash)
Steep 1 tablespoon of dried catnip leaves in 2 cups of boiling water, strain, and let cool.
Dosage & Duration
Use the cooled wash twice daily until healing occurs.
Yeast Infection Relief
Catnip’s antifungal properties can help soothe and combat yeast infections.
Preparation (Wash)
Boil 2 tablespoons of dried catnip leaves in 3 cups of water for 15 minutes, strain, and let cool.
Dosage & Duration
Use the cooled wash twice daily until symptoms improve.
Disclaimer:
This information is based on traditional uses and some scientific studies. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new herbal treatment, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are on medication. This guide is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Catnip
Catnip Overview
Catnip, also known as Nepeta cataria, is a member of the mint family and is native to Europe, but now widely cultivated in other parts of the world. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. The plant is characterized by its square stem and green-gray leaves, which have a distinctive minty aroma.
Catnip has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history. It was commonly used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as headaches, toothaches, and anxiety. It was also used as a culinary herb in cooking, and as an insect repellent in gardens.
Today, Catnip is primarily used as a natural remedy for anxiety, stress, and insomnia. It is also used as a natural insect repellent and as a seasoning in cooking. Catnip leaves are harvested in the summer months, just before the plant begins to flower. They can be dried and brewed into a tea, or used as an ingredient in tinctures, capsules, and other herbal remedies.
Catnip is a hardy, perennial plant that thrives in well-drained soils and full sun. It is easy to grow and is often cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens. The plant’s active compound, nepetalactone, is responsible for its relaxing and sedative effects and is found in the leaves and flowers of the plant.
In summary, Catnip is a versatile plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine and culinary applications. Its leaves and flowers are harvested for their beneficial properties and can be used in a variety of natural remedies and culinary dishes.
Growing
&
Harvesting
Catnip is a member of the mint family and is known for its ability to attract and stimulate cats. To start growing catnip, you can purchase seeds or transplants from your local garden center or collect seeds from existing plants in the fall and sow them in the spring.
Catnip prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil, but it can also grow in less ideal conditions. Once you have your seeds or transplants, sow the seeds or plant the transplants about 18 to 24 inches apart in the ground or in containers. Water the plants regularly and make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
When harvesting catnip, wait until the plants have reached at least 12 inches tall before harvesting. Cut the stems just above a leaf set, leaving some foliage on the stem. You can harvest catnip multiple times throughout the growing season, but be sure to leave some foliage on the plant so it can continue to grow.
Growing catnip can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially if you have furry feline friends who enjoy it. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of catnip throughout the growing season
Light
Catnip prefers full sun to partial shade, but it can tolerate some shade. However, too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and tall.
Soil
Catnip thrives in well-drained, loamy soil that is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus. It grows well in disturbed soil and can tolerate a wide range of pH levels. However, it does not thrive in extremely dry and barren soils.
Water
Catnip has average water requirements and can tolerate short periods of drought, but it thrives in climates with frequent rainfall. In areas with regular rainfall, additional watering is not required.
Temperature and Humidity
Catnip can grow in all climates across its USDA hardiness range of zones 3 to 9. It prefers humid climates but can grow well in dry conditions if the soil is adequately moist.
Fertilizer
Catnip thrives in nitrogen-rich soil, so regular feeding with compost or nitrogen-rich fertilizers can benefit plants growing in poor soil. However, in most garden soil, catnip can grow well without any additional feeding.
Pruning
Deadheading spent flowers can prevent catnip from self-seeding and spreading uncontrollably. Catnip requires little pruning, except for the removal of dead stems before winter.
How to Grow
STEP 1
Fill a seed tray with regular potting mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
STEP 2
Scatter catnip seeds evenly on top of the soil, spacing them about an inch apart, and gently press them into the soil.
STEP 3
Cover the seeds lightly with a thin layer of soil, about 1/8 inch deep.
STEP 4
Water the soil gently and place the seed tray in a warm, sunny location. Keep the soil moist, but not saturated, until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 10 to 14 days.
STEP 5
Once the seedlings have grown their first set of true leaves, you can transplant to larger pot or the garden (sunny location).
STEP6
If transplanting directly into the garden, space the plants about 18-24 inches apart to give them room to grow. Water the soil regularly to keep it moist, but avoid overwatering.
How to Harvest
When it comes to harvesting catnip, it’s best to do it before the plant begins to flower. The plant will have the most oil content at this stage, which is where the valuable properties of the plant come from. You can harvest the leaves by cutting them with pruning shears or scissors, leaving some leaves behind so the plant can continue to grow. Make sure to wear gloves as some contact with the plant may cause irritation.
For the root, dig around the base of the plant with a garden fork or spade, making sure to dig at least a foot (31 cm) away from the foliage to avoid damaging the roots. Gently pull the root out of the ground and clean it thoroughly with water. Cut the root into small pieces to make it easier to extract the valuable oils and benefits. Remember to leave some plants behind so they can regrow for future harvests.
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