Homemade Catnip Tincture and Extract Recipe using Food Grade Ethanol

Catnip is a well-known herb recognized for its calming effects on both humans and animals. Making a catnip tincture at home allows you to preserve and extract its beneficial compounds in a convenient and concentrated liquid form. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a high-quality tincture using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol to ensure maximum potency and purity.

What is Catnip

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is best known for its euphoric effects on cats. However, it has also been used in traditional herbal medicine for its calming, digestive, and mild sedative properties. The plant features aromatic, heart-shaped leaves and delicate purple flowers, thriving in a variety of climates.

Traditional Uses and Benefits of Catnip

Catnip has been used in European, Native American, and Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. Historically, it was used as a relaxant, digestive aid, and mild sedative for treating anxiety and restlessness. Native American tribes brewed catnip tea to soothe colic in infants, while European herbalists used it to support digestion and relieve headaches. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), catnip is known for its cooling and dispersing effects, making it useful for reducing fevers and calming the nervous system.

Where is Catnip Natively Grown in the US

Catnip is native to Europe and Asia but has naturalized across North America. It grows abundantly in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Oregon, and Kentucky, where it thrives in open fields, roadsides, and garden spaces. Catnip prefers well-drained soil and full sun, making it an easy-to-cultivate herb for foraging or home gardening.

Sourcing Catnip and How to Select Quality

For the best tincture results, choose organic, high-quality catnip leaves and flowers from reputable herbal suppliers, local farmers’ markets, or your own garden. Look for vibrant green leaves with a strong minty aroma. Avoid catnip that appears overly dry, yellowed, or lacks fragrance, as these indicate a loss of essential oils and potency.

Preparing Catnip for Tincture

To prepare catnip for tincturing:

• Ensure leaves and flowers are clean and free from debris.

• Lightly crush or chop the plant material to increase surface area for better extraction.

Recipe: Homemade Catnip Tincture and Extract

• Ingredients:

  • 1 ounce (28 g) of dried catnip leaves and flowers

  • 4 fl oz (118 mL) of USDA Certified Organic Food Grade Ethanol

• Instructions:

  1. Place the chopped catnip leaves and flowers in a clean, dry glass jar.

  2. Pour the ethanol over the plant material, ensuring it is fully submerged.

  3. Seal the jar tightly and shake gently.

  4. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 48 hours, shaking occasionally to enhance extraction.

  5. After the extraction period, strain the mixture through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove plant material.

  6. Transfer the finished tincture into a dark glass dropper bottle for storage and easy use.

Note: Tinctures made with 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol are typically ready after the recommended steeping times, but allowing the tincture to soak longer can enhance potency and rarely produces negative effects. Many assume tinctures require lengthy extraction times, but with 200 proof food grade ethanol, extraction is significantly faster and more efficient.

Best Practices for Storing Your Catnip Tincture or Extract

Store your catnip tincture in a dark glass bottle away from heat and sunlight to maintain potency. When properly stored, the tincture remains effective for up to two years.

Suggested Uses and Dosage for Catnip Tincture

Catnip tincture is commonly used for stress relief, sleep support, and digestive health. A standard dosage is 5-15 drops in water or tea, taken 1-3 times daily as needed. It can also be used before bedtime to promote relaxation. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosage recommendations.

Final Thoughts on Crafting Your Own Catnip Tincture

Making a catnip tincture at home is a great way to harness the calming and digestive benefits of this versatile herb. By using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol, you ensure a high-quality, chemical-free extraction that preserves catnip’s valuable compounds. Whether for stress relief, sleep aid, or digestive support, incorporating a catnip tincture into your wellness routine is a natural and effective solution.

No health claims are made from the content of this blog post. Consult a medical professional before deciding to make or consume the tinctures and extracts discussed. Be aware of possible adverse effects or allergies, as individual reactions may vary.