Buy 2 or more packets of mix and match seeds and get a free packet of seeds. Although eating catnip leaves is the least common form of consumption for human beings, catnip actually has a rather impressive collection of nutrients, from beneficial chemicals and unique organic compounds to essential acids,minerals, and vitamins that our bodies need. The same quality that makes catnip so attractive to cats, namely because it makes them slightly “high” and sedates them, can also apply to humans in a more controlled way. Catnip can provide stress relief and reduce chronic anxiety as an herbal remedy when eaten, consumed in the form of a juice or tea, or when smoked as an herb. This can also help to reduce the secondary symptoms of chronic stress and strengthen your immune system.Catnip has been used by people with insomnia or sleep restlessness for hundreds, if not thousands of years. The sedative nature helps to slow down the body’s natural cycles and induce a calm, relaxed state. People are better able to sleep through the night for undisturbed, restful sleep. Many people choose to drink a cup of catnip tea before bed to ensure a refreshing sleep. Catnip is particularly effective in clearing up digestive issues, especially constipation, excess flatulence, cramping, and bloating. The relaxing, anti-inflammatory effects of catnip’s organic compounds can ease the knots and inflammation in your gastrointestinal system and relieve tightness and discomfort. For women suffering from particularly painful menstrual cramps, catnip tea is often recommended as an alternative treatment, because it can quickly relieve those cramps and stresses on the body. Furthermore, the sedative, calming effects of catnip can also soothe other symptoms of menstruation, such as mood swings and depression. Although the exact mechanism isn’t completely understood, catnip has proven to be very effective in the treatment of headaches, even chronic migraines. Rubbing the essential oil on the affected area can work, but drinking catnip tea or rubbing a catnip leaf salve on the temples can also offer quick relief. The natural repellent quality of catnip makes it ideal for keeping bugs away from gardens when kept as an ornamental plant, but the organic compounds in the plant make it ideal for soothing bug bites and relieving irritation on the skin. Applying salves or extracts to irritated or broken skin can speed the healing process and reduce inflammation quickly. GROWING INFORMATION DAYS TO GERMINATION:7-10 days at 60-70°F (16-21°C). SOWING:Transplant (recommended): Start 6-8 weeks before the last frost in the spring. Barely cover with vermiculite; seeds require light to germinate. Thin to one plant per cell, pinching out the growing tip for a bushier plant. Transplant outside when 3″ tall with a final spacing of 12-18″. Direct seed: Direct seed after the last spring frost or in early fall, sowing 2-3 seeds per inch. Tamp seeds onto the surface of the soil or just barely cover them; seeds require light to germinate. Commercial growers should start with well-irrigated soil beds and roll the seeds into the soil. Rows should be 18″ apart and individual plants thinned to 12-18″ apart. LIGHT PREFERENCE:Sun.SOIL REQUIREMENTS:Catnip will grow almost anywhere, but ideally in sandy soil. PLANT HEIGHT:24-48″. PLANT SPACING:12-18″. HARDINESS ZONES:Zones 3-9. HARVEST:Harvest individual leaves when the plants have become established. The top 3/4 of the plant maybe harvested starting in the second year. To dry, hang branches upside down in a well-ventilated, dry location out of sunlight. Note:Once established, catnip is very hardy and self-sows readily. Will be shipped from Manhasset, New York. From store called Flower Shop Inc. Florist and greenhouse situated in Long Island, New York. Been in business for 20 years and counting