Catnip

            Cats should not be given the monopoly on this useful herb. A member of the mint family, the leaves of the catnip yield a pleasing and useful tea. It was much appreciated in England before the introduction of Asian teas and was also used by the Native Americans. It is therapeutic as an inducer of perspiration in cases of fever, as a carminative, and as a relaxant and sleep inducer. Catnip tea is said to work wonders with colicky infants; it is soothing and quieting and may save mothers some sleepless nights. For you or your child, steep 1 teaspoon dried or fresh crushed catnip leaves in 2 cups boiling water, and reap the calming benefits.

Caraway Seed

A member of the carrot family, caraway was once used in love potions and to protect valued possessions from thieves. Native to Europe, Siberia, and the Himalayas, it is said that the farther north caraway grows, the more aromatic are the seeds. As a medicinal, 1 teaspoon bruised seeds to 2 cups boiling water gives a tea that is valued to aid in digestion and expel gas, to encourage menstruation, and to soothe the pain of a colicky infant. In cooking it is used to flavor bread, cakes and cookies, sauerkraut, and mild cheeses. Next time you serve bread and any Muenster-type cheese,  put a small bowl of caraway seeds on the table; sprinkled on a slice of cheese they add delicious pungency and aroma. Caraway is also the flavor base of Kummel liqueur.