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CATNIP
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(Nepeta cataria) Top Pick
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Other Names
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Catmint, Catnep, Catrop, Catswort, Field Balm.
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Description
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Catnip is a perennial herb of the mint family found all over the
world. It
grows 3 - 5 feet tall producing scalped edged leaves with whitish hairs on the bottom side, and
white flowers are covered with purple spots, that bloom from June through
September.
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Classification
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Taste
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Balance Yin/Yang
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Cooling
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Humor
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Fire
ê Water
ê Air
Û
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Uses/Applications
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Traditionally Catnip has been used as a cold and flu remedy, as well as for
fever, and bronchitis. Use as an anti-spasmodic to ease stomach upset, dyspepsia, flatulence,
colic, and diarrhea. It has a sedative action on nerves and adds to relaxing properties of other
herbs. It is
also a mild sedative.
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Infusion
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Used as a digestive aid, and mild tranquilizer. It is used to soothe menstrual
cramps.
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Combinations
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Boneset, Elder, Yarrow, Cayenne.
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Constituents
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Volatile Oil, Bitter Principle, Tannins.
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Action
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Carminative, Anti-Spasmodic, Diaphoretic, Sedative,
Astringent.
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Food Values
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Magnesium.
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Part Used
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Leaves, Flowering Tops.
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Collection
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Harvest leaves and flower tops late in the summer when they are in full
bloom.
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Preparation
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Infusion
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Pour a cup of boiling water onto 2 Tsp. of dried herb. Infuse 15
minutes. Take
three times per day.
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Decoction
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Put 2 Tsp. dried herb per cup, steep 20 minutes. Do not boil as the healing oil
will be dissipated. Take three times per day
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Capsule
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Take 1 to 3 daily.
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Extract
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Take 1 Tsp. in a cup of water two times per day.
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Tincture
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Take 2 - 4 ml. three times per day.
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Growing Directions
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Catnip grows easily from either seeds or root divisions planted in the spring or
fall. It
thrives in well drained soil under full sun, but it will tolerate partial
shade. Thin seedlings to 18 inches.
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History
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Catnip has been medicinally used for at least 2000 years from Europe to
China. It has
a long history as a tranquilizer, sedative, digestive aid, menstrual promoter, and for flatulence.
Equal parts of Catnip and Saffron were once used to treat smallpox and scarlet
fever. It was
also a popular tea in Pre-Elizabethan England.
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Additional Information
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1. Catnip has no hallucinogenic qualities, even though sometimes it is
reported as so.
2. Catnip is a relative of the Mint family.
3. Catnip is known as “Natures AKA Seltzer.”
4. From 1842 - 1882 Catnip was listed in the US
Pharmacopoeia.
5. From 1916 - 1950 Catnip was listed in the National Formulary for its
medicinal value.
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Cautions
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None
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Magick Information
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Gender:
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Feminine
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Planet:
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Venus
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Element:
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Water
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Deity:
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Bast
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Powers:
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Cat Magick, Happiness, Love.
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Magickal Uses:
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Feed Catnip to your cat to create a psychic bond with
you. Use in love sachets with rose petals. Grow around your home to
attract good spirits and good luck.
Catnip is also used in spells to enhance beauty and
happiness.
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