
     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.
