The mint family (Lamiaceae), which includes the robust and weedy perennial herb catnip, is hardy in zones 3-9. Nepeta cataria is one of numerous species that are referred to collectively as catmints, and it has been widely naturalized throughout temperate regions of the world. Most cats are drawn to the aromatic leaves of this plant, which are typically found in disturbed areas like roadside or field edges, along streams, or on waste ground, but many people are not fond of their pungent odor, which has been variously described as a combination of thyme and oregano to “mildly pungent.
Catnip has a rangy habit and upright, branching branches with green to gray-green foliage. It shares with other members of the mint family the distinctive square stems and opposing leaves with 1-inch petioles. Fine hairs are seen on the petioles and stems of the light green plants. The up to 3 inch long triangular to ovate leaves have crenate margins, which are rough teeth, and are cordate at the base. Fine hairs cover both the upper and bottom surfaces, and the upper side clearly reveals a reticulated network of veins. In the winter, plants wither to the ground, and in the early spring, new stems appear. Under ideal circumstances, plants can reach heights and widths of up to 3 feet, and they can also establish colonies from their short rhizomes.
Anytime from late spring through fall, plants can flower, and they will bloom for one to two months. On spike-like terminal racemes, the tiny blooms (about 1/3 inch long) are carried in tightly clustered whorls. The characteristic of the mint family, individual bilabiate (two-lipped) flowers are white with light purple or pink spots on the lower lip. The lower lip has three lobes, including a bigger middle lobe with a frilly outer edge, compared to the little upper lip’s two lobes. Numerous various sorts of butterflies, wasps, flies, and bees of all kinds visit the nectar-rich blooms. After the initial flowering, shearing encourages subsequent blooming.
Seed capsules that each contain four smooth, ovoid nutlets stand in for the flowers. Goldfinches and other seed-eating birds might visit the plants if they aren’t deadheaded. Although this plant easily reproduces and can be an annoyance in some places, it is not typically regarded as an invasive species in Wisconsin. After flowering, cut the plants all the way down to prevent them from reseeding.
Catnip is typically planted for house cats because it is not very well known for its ornamental features. It is also occasionally produced to attract butterflies. Nepeta x faassenii or Nepeta racemosa, which have showier flowers and better behavior (though less alluring leaves for cats), make much better ornamentals, but N. cateria could be combined with other perennials in the border in the same way that the other catmints can “included in a herb garden, or a cat-friendly yard. Containers may also be used to grow it. Regular pruning will make the plant more compact and less weedy looking.
Although catnip does well in poor soils and some shade, it grows best in full sun and medium, well-drained soil. The amount of soil fertility and moisture have a big impact on plant size. Once it has grown, this plant can withstand droughts to some extent. If cultivated as an ornamental, pinching will aid in the development of a more dense, well-shaped plant as the plants shoot up in the spring. Deer do not favor it, although stray cats may cause damage to it (mainly breaking the stems when rolling on the plant). Others advise keeping the plant in a hanging basket to keep it out of reach, while someone advised covering it with an elegant bird cage to keep cats away. It is easily multiplied by division of mature plants or seed that is introduced indoors a few weeks before the final frost. University of Wisconsin-Madison student Susan Mahr
Can people consume Nepeta cataria?
Although catnip is a herb mainly famous for the euphoric impact it may have on cats, it also offers a lot of advantages for people. Not just cats can use it.
Catnip has been used medicinally at least since the time of the ancient Romans, despite the fact that it is likely most well-known for eliciting amusing cat behaviors.
This herb was widely utilized by Native Americans as well, and it is still widely employed in herbal therapy today.
What Is Catnip?
Originally from Central Europe and some regions of Asia, catnip is now grown all over the world, including in the United States and Canada. It is believed that settlers who took cuttings with them brought the plant to America for the first time in the 18th century. (1)
The herb’s leaves and stems contain nepetalactone, a powerful substance. The plant’s volatile oil is what draws cats to it and causes actions like rolling, purring, and vocalizations. (2)
Along with other catnip’s active ingredients, nepetalactone has significant advantages for humans as well.
Benefits of Catnip for Sleep
Nepetalactone, a key active ingredient in catnip, is remarkably similar to valepotriates, the main ingredients in valerian, another well-liked sleep aid. Humans are sedated by it, and it can treat insomnia. (3)
Catnip is an effective sleep aid for kids because of its relaxing and gentle properties. Additionally, it might ease the stress that is creating a headache.
It’s interesting to note that while catnip can drive cats wild when they play with it, if they eat it, it will also have a sedative effect on them.
Consider consuming this Sweet Slumber Tea blend with catnip to help with insomnia and nighttime unrest.
Stress Relief and Anxiety
Catnip has several advantages for reducing stress and anxiety because of its sedative-like properties that are relaxing.
In fact, it has long been advocated by herbalists for the treatment of nervous illnesses and is frequently a component of herbal calming teas.
Catnip encourages relaxation, can help with persistent tension and anxiety, and is good for overall mental health. (4)
Additionally, it works well as a natural nervine for kids and may reduce hyperactivity. (5)
Cough, Cold, and Fever Remedy
Catnip is also used traditionally as a medicine to treat cold and other sickness symptoms.
Catnip is frequently utilized, along with other herbs like licorice root and mullein, as a cough and sore throat cure. Studies have shown that it contains bronchodilatory and antispasmodic qualities that naturally calm coughs and may even aid with asthma. (6)(7)
Catnip is a diaphoretic plant as well. By causing sweating and accelerating the body’s ability to rid itself of the illness, diaphoretics are used to help the body sweat out a fever. (8)
Try consuming this Respiratory Relief tea blend, which contains catnip, for coughs, colds, and sore throats. Make a tea with catnip and other herbs like peppermint and yarrow to treat fever, and sip on it consistently all day.
Benefits of Catnip for Digestion
Catnip’s antispasmodic qualities make it useful for relieving cramps and indigestion.
Additionally, it relaxes gas and can aid with constipation and bloating. It also functions as a carminative. Catnip’s anti-inflammatory qualities reduce pain and digestive system irritation.
Catnip can be used topically on a baby’s stomach to ease colic, and a tea can aid adults with upset stomachs and pregnant women with morning sickness. (9)
Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief
Catnip’s anti-inflammatory characteristics make it effective for reducing pain and reducing both internal and exterior inflammation.
Catnip has long been used to treat a variety of unpleasant conditions, such as arthritis, gout, headaches, and sore muscles. (9)
Painful menstrual cramps, migraines, and stomach discomfort can all be relieved with catnip tea. For aches and pains, it can also be applied topically as an infusion or dissolved in water for a bath.
One of the main ingredients in this Afterbirth Ease Tea, which was created to ease the discomfort and cramping caused by uterine contractions after childbirth, is catnip.
Benefits of Catnip for Skin
Catnip has sedative, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic components that make it effective for treating skin infections and hastening the recovery of small cuts and wounds. (10)
Catnip has historically been recommended by herbalists in tea form for hives in addition to being used externally as a salve or extract for skin issues.
Using Catnip for Your Health
Making catnip tea is among the simplest methods to use it for a number of health advantages:
- 1 cup of boiling water should be added to 1-2 tablespoons of dry catnip.
- Prior to filtering out the herbs and drinking the tea, let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
- If you discover that you dislike catnip’s flavor on its own, experiment by adding herbs like peppermint, lemon balm, or red raspberry leaf.
Catnip is also offered as an extract, which can be applied topically in a salve or infused into bathwater for a relaxing experience.
Side Effects and Precautions
Catnip’s modest sedative effects can make people feel sleepy. It’s better to give it a try at first at night to gauge your reaction.
Headaches, gastrointestinal disturbances, and allergic responses are uncommon adverse effects.
Women who have painful periods or pelvic inflammatory disease shouldn’t consume catnip. Both of these diseases may become worse as a result of the herb, which accelerates menstruation.
Talk to your doctor before using catnip if you are on any medications or have a medical condition, and stop using it two weeks before any surgery.
Have You Tried Catnip?
Catnip might be the following herb to try as a natural cure because it has advantages for both humans and cats.
Tea made from catnip can be drank to ease coughs, calm stomach, and promote sleep. Catnip’s mild nature makes it an effective treatment for reducing stress and anxiety in kids.
Nepeta cataria: Is it harmful to cats?
Even when consumed by cats, catnip is not poisonous to them. Cats are unaffected by catnip’s euphoric effects, which are short-lived. There is no indication that catnip has any long-term consequences, and it is not addictive.
After consuming catnip, cats may appear to be “high,” which scares some cat lovers. There is no evidence to suggest that catnip is hazardous or addictive, even if we may never fully understand how cats are affected by it. You are in charge of determining how and when to give your cat catnip. If you are unsure, seek guidance from your veterinarian.
While catnip in and of itself is completely safe for cats, there are few scenarios to avoid. Certain catnip-related items, games, and settings might be harmful if utilized incorrectly.
- Catnip-infused tinctures, sprays, or solutions should not be given to cats unless they are specifically labelled as being suitable for felines to consume. Some of these are only supposed to be used on bedding or toys. They might have alcoholic beverages or other unfit-for-ingestion substances.
- Steer clear of catnip toys with strings or components that can be consumed by cats and cause harmful gastrointestinal blockages.
- When administering catnip to cats who are known to be aggressive, exercise caution. Lower inhibition and an increase in aggressive behavior are also possible effects.
- Cats who are ill, injured, or recovering from surgery shouldn’t be given catnip. Some cats experience catnip-induced hyperactivity, which could hinder healing.
Warning
After swallowing a lot of catnip, cats may have self-limiting vomiting and/or diarrhea. If these symptoms persist for more than 12 hours, call your vet.
Is catnip and nepeta the same thing?
Nepeta cataria, a plant native to Europe and a close relative of the mints, produces catnip (spearmint, peppermint, pennyroyal, etc). The plant or dried herb attracts a lot of cats, and the smell might cause odd behavior patterns. Licking, chewing, head shaking, chin and cheek stroking, rolling, and salivation are a few of these actions. The herb only has an effect on roughly two-thirds of domestic cats. Other cat species, such as lions, leopards, and jaguars, are also impacted. A common folk treatment for fevers, colds, cramps, and headaches is catnip.
Catnip offers therapeutic benefits for both humans and cats, in addition to having insecticidal characteristics. Nepetalactone is the substance in catnip that is active (a component of essential oil extracted from catnip). Nepatalactone is an insect repellent that was developed by Iowa State University researchers in the early 2000s for use against cockroaches, mosquitoes, mites, ticks, spiders, termites, and other pests. Since then, it hasn’t been included in insect repellents that are sold commercially.
Additionally promising for crop protection is catnip oil. In a study, collard greens intercropped with catnip (placed in alternate rows) decreased the prevalence of flea beetles, an insect that is extremely harmful to collards. It has also been demonstrated that catnip extracts can repel harmful insects and the adult and larval stages of the Colorado potato beetle. Caterpillars, moths, and butterflies cannot be harmed by catnip extracts.
Catnip is comparatively simple to cultivate, accepts a wide range of soil types, and if not controlled, has the potential to spread beyond your garden. There are numerous seed firms that sell seed. Since the seed is so tiny, it can be directly sown on garden soil that has been thoroughly prepared and covered with 1/8″ of dirt. As an alternative, it can be planted in a flat after it has five sets of leaves. If you have cats, you might need to keep them away from it until it is established and mature. Once planted, each plant should endure for a number of years. Cutting the root mass in half and replanting allows you to divide established plants. Grow the plants where they have enough room because they can grow rather huge (3 feet tall).
Prior to blossoming, trim stems to gather catnip (early to mid summer). Leaves should be taken off of stems. In a well-ventilated place away from direct sunshine, spread the leaves out on a screen or tray. To provide aeration, turn the leaves once per day. It ought to be dry enough to crumble into flakes after two to three weeks. Put dried flakes in a container with a tight lid or a plastic bag that can be sealed. A few catnip plants will give you a year-round supply if you adore cats.
While similar to catnip in appearance, catmint (Nepeta x faassenii) does not energize cats. It is a mounded shrub with lovely gray-green foliage that grows slowly. Early summer and again throughout the monsoon season are when its abundant blue flowers bloom. Once planted, it is tolerant to both heat and drought. It can self-seed and grow (almost to the point of becoming weedy). These hardy perennials can withstand USDA zone 4 conditions and do well in mountain gardens. The majority of herbivores, including deer, are not drawn to catmint. The majority of gardeners think it makes a fine perennial border plant.
Bees and other beneficial insects are attracted to catnip and catmint. Catnip typically only blooms once per season, but when it does, bees and other nectar-feeding insects are drawn to it. I saw solitary bees feasting on nectar in the early summer, honeybees utilizing it in the middle to late summer, and bee flies and hawk moths using it in the late summer due to catmint’s prolonged bloom time. I cultivate both catmint and catnip. Cats use the catnip that has been gathered. All summer long, the catmint offers beneficial insects both beauty and sustenance. Photos and links to more information are provided below.