Nepeta cataria

American Indian Names

There were no Native American names for catnip

Description
 
Catnip is a perennial forb that is native to Europe and was for many centuries a popular garden herb.  It grows up to three feet and has branching square stems that are toothed.  The leaves are covered with downy gray hairs.  Clusters of pale lavender tubular flowers with purplish spots grow at the end of the main stem and branches.  The plant is a member of the mint family and has a minty smell.  The plant flowers from June-October.

Habitat and Location

Catnip can be found throughout all of North American.  It is widely found on the Omaha Reservation.  It is usually found on roadsides and other waste areas and dry fields.  It grows so quickly that once it is introduced into an area it will soon take over.

Uses

Native American's have used catnip for a wide varitey of ailments.  It is especially used by the Cherokee for colds and coughs.  It was mixed with honey and was used for children's colds and coughs.  Many chewed catnip for toothaches.  The Cherokee used catnip for female obstructions and worms. Catnip tea has been used for digestive ailments and infant's colic.  The most common use is for cats.  They seem to get a europhic sensation from the oils of the plant.

This Page was last update: Wednesday, December 20, 2006 at 2:05:09 PM
This page was originally posted: 11/28/06; 11:00:02 AM.
Copyright 2008 Plants of the Omaha Indian Reservation

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