nepeta cataria
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Related to nepeta cataria: catmint
catnip
Whitish purple flower clusters, heart-shaped opposite leaves covered in fine hair, especially underside. high in vitamin C. Flowers and leaves make a minty tea used for colds, fever, bronchitis, colic, headaches, sedative, helps digestive system, calms stomach. Juice promotes menstruation, strong antispasmodic, restlessness, nervousness, tranquilizer, sedative. Chew leaves for toothache. Contains nepetalactone, an insect and mosquito repellant. Mild tea calms restless kids and babies colic. Rub tea on skin for skin irritations. Young shoots good in salad. Causes cats to “get high” and makes people sleepy.
Edible Plant Guide © 2012 Markus Rothkranz