Herb Catnep - Perennial

Additional Details

Sow Outside

In shallow drills in early spring. Cover with fine soil and water if dry. Transplant the seedlings when large enough to handle. Prefers a light soil in full sun.

Harvest

Harvest the young leaves before the flowers open.

Handy Tip

A herbal tea can produced using 1/2 of a cup of dried catnep, 3/4 of a cup of dried chamomile, 1 cup of dried lemon balm, 1/4 cup of dried mint, 1.4 cup of dried lemon grass.
Mix the herbs thoroughly, and store in an air tight container. For a cup of tea, use 2 tsp in a cup of boiling water. Steep for 5 minutes and strain out the herbs.

Uses

Leaves can be rubbed on meat to add flavour and shoots can be used in salads. The leaves contain vitamin C and can be used to soothe colds and fevers as catnep induces sleep. Can be used for headaches and upset stomachs, also applied externally will soothe scalp irritations.