If you are someone who has just harvested catnip from your garden, you might be wondering how to dry it properly so that you can store it for future use. Drying catnip is crucial as it reduces the moisture content in the plant, making it less likely to develop mold or fungus. Here is a simple guide on how to dry freshly picked catnip.

1. Harvesting Catnip
The best time to harvest catnip is when the plant flowers. This is usually in late summer, around July and August. Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut the catnip stems 3-4 inches below the flowers.

2. Remove the Leaves
Once you have harvested the catnip, remove the leaves from the stem carefully. Discard any damaged or bruised parts.

3. Air-Drying Catnip
One way of drying catnip is to air-dry it naturally. Spread the leaves on a clean surface or hang them in small bunches upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Make sure there is enough space between the leaves for air to circulate around them as moisture is the enemy. The leaves will take between two to three weeks to dry completely.

4. Oven Drying Catnip
Another method of drying catnip is by using an oven. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the catnip leaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are evenly spread out. Place the baking sheet inside the oven and close the door. Allow the catnip to dry for 30 minutes, checking periodically until it has fully dried out.

5. Use a Dehydrator
If you have a dehydrator, drying catnip becomes an even easier task. Place the catnip leaves on the trays and set the dehydrator temperature to 35°C (95°F). Turn on the power and let it run for 24-48 hours, depending on the efficiency of your dehydrator.

6. Store Dried Catnip
After the catnip leaves have dried completely, feel free to store them in an airtight container, such as a jar or a zip-top bag. Keep the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Properly dried and stored, catnip leaves can stay fresh for up to a year.

Benefits of Catnip for Pets and Humans
Catnip is a beneficial herb that has many health benefits for cats and humans alike. Here are some of the benefits of catnip:

1. Relaxation and Sleep
Catnip has a calming effect on cats and humans alike. It can help to relax the body and promote restful sleep.

2. Anxiety and Stress
Catnip has natural sedative properties that can help to reduce anxiety and stress in both cats and humans.

3. Digestive Health
Catnip has been used to treat stomach issues, such as nausea, indigestion, and bloating, for hundreds of years.

4. Insect Repellant
Catnip is a natural insect repellent. It contains a compound called nepetalactone which is a natural insecticide against mosquitoes, flies, and other pests.

Conclusion
Drying catnip is a fairly straightforward process that can be done using a few different methods. Once dried, the herb can be stored and used for various purposes, such as making a relaxing tea or as a natural insect repellant. Remember to store your dried catnip in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, for it to stay fresh and potent for longer periods.

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