[Sca-cooks] Catnip - probably more information than you would like to know

[Samrah]

I maintain a personal herbal for use at events, home, etc. It is done in periodish style, a bit more organized than most herbals in period, with goodly sized computerized calligraphy and duty free period illustrations. As it is not a research paper or designed for competition, the information in this volume is not specifically footnoted. I do have a solid bibliography, but at this point to footnote specific facts would not be time-efficient. Please note that to insure the most accurate information, most of my sources are current-day.

With that qualification, Hope this helps ~ Samrah

CATNIP Nepeta cataria

Also known as: Mentioned by Gerard as "Catmint", although there are also plants called catmint.

Description: Hardy perennial with sprawling stems and fine toothed leaves covered with white downy-like fuzz and white or pink flowers. Grows up to three feet tall and two feet wide. Its fragrance is said to resemble a combination of Camphor, Thyme & Pennyroyal.

Notes: The infamous stuffing for catnip mice, but did you know that the same herb that keys kittens up, winds children down and calms upset tummies*? The genus name may be derived from the Roman town of Nepti, where catnip was said to grow profusely. Routinely grown in the Gardens of the Cloisters (NY Met Museum recreation of period garden).

Properties*: Colds, flu, insomnia, stress, indigestion, dandruff, bruises & joint pain.

Uses: Salads, teas, stews & roasts. Famous for use in cat toys and also deters insects.

*It is not the intent of the author to diagnose or prescribe. This information for reference and historical interest only.

Bibliography (complete book specifics available upon request)

Bremess (editor), Herbs, 1990.

Edinger & Eyre, Herbs - An Illustrated Guide, 1994.

Lathrop, Herbs - How to Select, Grow & Enjoy, 1981.

Lawless, The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils, 1992.

Ody, The Complete Medicinal Herbal,1993.

Oster, Ortho's All About Herbs, 1999.

Tierra, Planetary Herbology, 1988.

Woodward (editor), Gerard's Herbal, 1994.

Much communication from Paige North at the Cloisters Gardens of the New York Met. Museum.

Some facts were also verified by the New Encyclopedia Britannica, 1998.

 

		
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