Catnip

Nepeta cataria

herb · infusion

Leaves with a minty, lemony scent, in a calming tea; the young leaves also liven up a salad.

Origin

Europe and western Asia

Where to find it

More in gardens than in the wild: once common on rubble and old walls, it is becoming rare; garden centers sell the plants, for cats.

Season (United States)

June to September

Preparation

One teaspoon of dried leaves per cup, five to ten minutes in barely simmering water; the infusion is strained and drunk.

Did you know?

Its nepetalactone sends cats into a trance, and repels mosquitoes.