Catmint, commonly referred to as catnip, got its common name from how it affects cats. Catmint causes cats to act abnormally, including rolling over, pawing, and rubbing when they sniff or rub against it. Nepeta cataria is its scientific name, which is also cat-inspired.
Nepetalactone, an iridoid-class chemical produced by catmint, is what’s responsible for the cats’ behavior. Different flowering plants contain iridoids. However, we believe that catmint produces nepetalactone to ward off plant-eating insects rather than to make cats high. Nepetalactone is actually recognized to be just as effective at repelling some insects as the widely used synthetic repellent DEET.
The mint family, which also includes familiar herbs like oregano, thyme, and, of course, mint, includes varieties of catmint. Iridoids are present in many mint family species, however they are not present in plants that are very closely related to catmint. This suggests that the ability to produce iridoids was lost and then acquired during the millions of years of evolution of the mint family.
Animals can “move” to alter their environment to avoid predators, while plants cannot. Instead, by creating useful compounds like colors and toxins, they can adapt to the environment. In order to better understand how plants evolve to produce these adaptable chemicals, we felt that catmint would provide an excellent case study. First off, since nepetalactone is a rather straightforward molecule, there weren’t many stages to look into. Second, we previously knew that the formation of nepetalactone in catmint is aided by the enzymes iridoid synthase (ISY) and nepetalactol-related short chain dehydrogenases (NEPS), which are a collection of proteins that function as biocatalysts. Finally, we were collaborating with a sizable international team of experts who had a wealth of knowledge on the mint family. So, we started researching how catmint developed to produce nepetalactone.
We investigated the evolution of catmint using several techniques. Discovering the genomes of different catmint species was the first step. A genome is a collection of all the genes in a species, each of which encodes a specific protein. We were able to locate every gene involved in the manufacture of nepetalactone thanks to the acquisition of genomic data. By building evolutionary trees for various genes, we may determine when a specific gene lost function or first appeared during evolution. More amazingly, these evolutionary trees allow us to recreate a “ancestor” enzyme using its genetic code. Similar to Jurassic Park, but with a single catmint enzyme in place of entire dinosaurs, we may create it and evaluate its functionality in the laboratory. We were able to create a picture of how catmint evolved to produce nepetalactone by utilizing this assortment of techniques.
We concentrated on the main genes responsible for producing the ISY and NEPS enzymes in the plant, which are necessary for iridoid production. We discovered that the ISYs from catmint were distinct from those discovered in other iridoid-producing species using an evolutionary tree of ISY genes. In addition, the genomes of species allied to catmint had zero ISY genes. This indicated that an ancestral ISY gene needs to re-evolve in order for catmint to produce iridoids.
Then, when we examined where the ISY gene was located in the catmint genomes, we discovered that it was adjacent to NEPS genes. Gene clusters are regions of the genome that include several genes with similar activities. As a result, we found a gene cluster for nepetalactone!
We followed the history of the ISY gene in catmint to learn more about the connection between gene evolution and the development of gene clusters. We discovered that the ISY gene relocated close to the NEPS to form the gene cluster after evolving its capacity to produce the iridoid-producing enzyme at one location on the genome about 20 million years ago. This finding suggests that gene evolution occurs before the creation of gene clusters.
Through this investigation, we learned how a plant acquired the capacity to produce the cat-attracting chemical nepetalactone, which is how a mint became catmint. Our study offers broad insights into how novel chemistry develops in plants, giving them a means of surviving in a particular environment. This information might enable us to identify novel plant compounds that have potential to improve human health.
Is catnip and catmint different from one another?
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.
Do cats enjoy catmint food?
It should go without saying that cats adore catnip for those of you who own them. This plant is really attractive to our feline companions, whether they consume it or simply roll about in it. Our nursery cat would destroy most of the catnip pots if we didn’t keep them out of her reach. Cat lovers might not be aware that there is another relative of catnip in the same species. Catmint, or Nepeta faassenii, is frequently just as aphrodisiac to cats as its more well-known species companion.
It has been discovered by many gardeners that catmint’s attraction extends beyond tabbies and calicos. Nepeta cultivars produce a 6- to 18-inch-tall stand of mid-green, occasionally grey foliage with charmingly crinkled, soft-to-the-touch leaves. Late April is when flowering usually starts, but it can go on well into the fall. The spike-like, whorled, 1-inch flowers come in a range of colors, including bluish purples, lavenders, and even a white flowering variation.
Nepetas have a variety of uses, but one of them is as a tall ground cover. Cats will want to hang out in your catmint patch if you have any, so be ready for it to be flattened half the time. Fortunately, nepetas are tough enough to withstand some damage. Don’t be put off by the word “mint.” Nepetas are not as invasive as true mints, but they will gradually take over a space if given access to regular water. Nepetas are typically sun lovers, although they can tolerate little shade, making them suitable for planting in the understory. They have shallow roots, making them a great choice to put close to taller perennials or flowering bulbs like lilies, gladioli, and dahlias. Catmint can also be planted in a pot and allowed to spill over the edge, offering calming tones to go with more vibrant hues.
Your catmint will be home to a variety of wildlife in addition to cats. Nepetas are beloved by bees, who will frequently visit these plants.
Does catmint poison cats?
The majority of mint plants contain essential oils that, when ingested in large doses, might have adverse effects. Cats can safely consume catnip and catmint, two varieties of mint. If consumed in excess, garden mint may upset the stomach. Garden mint’s unique essential oils have also been observed to relax the esophageal valve, increasing the likelihood that a sick cat would vomit. Only a few types of mint, including pennyroyal, can have such severe effects on the body that they can even lead to liver failure. Complicacies from mint ingestion are more likely to occur in cats that already have liver, intestinal, or bowel problems. In cats with delicate skin, mint contact may cause skin irritation.
There are various mint plant subspecies. All belong to the plant family Lamiaceae, also known as Sage. Garden mint is the most prevalent variety. This is the variety of mint that is frequently grown for its culinary properties. The majority of mint plants have wavy, ovular-shaped leaves. The mint plant produces clusters of flowers that range in color from lavender to white and are borne on stalks. Wild mint plants can be found all throughout the United States. Although the plant can grow to a height of over 3 feet, it frequently grows long and low to the ground.
Citronella
One of the most well-known plants for repelling mosquitoes is the citronella plant, commonly known as the mosquito plant. In fact, citronella is probably one of the components in any candle that claims to keep mosquitoes away.
The citronella plant, as its name suggests, smells like lemons and is simple to grow in any yard or plant pot.
The citronella plant is a sun-loving perennial ‘clumping’ grass that can reach heights of up to 5 or 6 feet (about 2 meters). It does not tolerate frost, therefore if you reside in a region with chilly winters, you should put it in pots and bring them indoors over the winter.
The best varieties of citronella plants to purchase if you want to deter mosquitoes are Cybopogon nardus or Citronella winterianus.
When applied topically, citronella essential oil offers exceptionally excellent defense against insects and mosquitoes, making it one of the most powerful all-natural mosquito repellents.
The fact that citronella oil alone evaporates quite quickly is one thing you should take into account. But according to a study in the Journal of Vector Ecology, combining citronella with vanillin boosted the mosquito-repelling power of the mixture for up to 8 hours1. This indicates that it is equally efficient as DEET, the most widely used chemical ingredient in insect repellents, as an insect repellent.
Another investigation shown that citronella retained its insect-repellent qualities on garments for up to 30 days when combined with gelatin-arabic gum microcapsules2.
Citronella is therefore one of the best natural plants you can use to repel mosquitoes, and this is supported by scientific studies. It is also one of the most effective natural insect repellents. Furthermore, citronella works just as well as chemical-based repellents to keep mosquitoes away while having none of the negative side effects.
Here are some tips for using your citronella plant to keep mosquitoes away:
To ward off mosquitoes, rub all exposed body parts with a few softened citronella leaves that you have between your palms.
You can also prevent mosquitoes from entering your home by placing fresh leaves on window sills.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a clumping, dark green herb that can reach heights of 3-6 feet (1-2 meters) and has a pungent lemon aroma.
Lemongrass works well as a mosquito repellant because it also includes citronella oil. Mosquitoes will stay away thanks to its potent lemon aroma.
Catmint
Nepeta faassenii, an oil found in catmint, has been demonstrated in numerous tests to have insect-repelling effects. Catmint possesses qualities that make it a natural mosquito repellent, according to a study published in the journal Parasitology Research3.
Catnip
Catnip and catmint are closely related, and most people think of catnip as a herb that makes cats crazy. Although they are both simple to grow, catnip and catmint have a propensity to take over a garden.
Many people might not know that catnip works well to keep mosquitoes away, though. Additionally, research has demonstrated that catnip possesses insect-repelling qualities. For instance, according to research from Iowa State University, catnip essential oil was 10 times more efficient as an insect repellent than DEET4.
However, if you have cats, you might want to consider growing alternative plants in your garden.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a widely used herb that has a lovely appearance and numerous culinary applications. It thrives both inside and outside. One of the greatest plants for repelling mosquitoes is rosemary (as well as insects and other bugs). One of the plants that deters wasps is this one.
Therefore, to get the most out of rosemary, you should have a pot growing on a windowsill or next to a doorway. This will not only provide color and a great scent to the area, but it will also help keep insects out of the space by blocking their flight.
Basil
Basil may be grown and used as a mosquito repellent and in cooking, similar to how rosemary can. Additionally supported by scientific study is this. For instance, one study found that oils made from turmeric and hairy basil, along with 5% vanillin, effectively repelled three types of mosquitoes for 6 to 8 hours in cage conditions2.
Basil contains anti-inflammatory qualities and can be used to treat mosquito bites in addition to repelling mosquitoes (as I mentioned in my article about the top 15 natural ways to relieve mosquito bites). Basil leaves can be applied directly to the affected area by rubbing them between your fingers or by crushing the leaves in a pestle and mortar and applying the paste to your skin.
Pyrethrum
This plant aids in the prevention of a wide range of insects and pests, such as ticks, aphids, leafhoppers, spider mites, and harlequin bugs, in addition to mosquitoes. Insecticide prepared from dried flower heads of Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium and Chrysanthemum coccineum is known as pyrethrum.
The six esters known as pyretrins, which are active components found in the floral sections termed achenesthe future seeds of Pyrethrum, function as an insect repellent.
Lavender
Due to its relaxing effects and lovely aroma, lavender has a wide range of applications. Additionally, lavender naturally deters mosquitoes. Lavender essential oil is particularly efficient when coupled with other natural oils, according to certain studies5.
Geranium
Geraniums thrive in both indoor and outdoor environments and are prized for their stunning, vivid colors. Mosquitoes and other creatures can be repelled by their aroma. In fact, research on geraniums as a mosquito repellent revealed that it was effective when combined with the oils of lavender and lemon eucalyptus5.
Peppermint
Another plant that deters insects is peppermint. Due to the fact that most insects dislike its potent taste and smell, it is an effective all-purpose insect repellent. According to one study, peppermint oil both kills the larvae of malaria-carrying mosquitoes and works well as a repellent against them6.
Other studies on natural mosquito repellents have revealed the effectiveness of essential oils from the mint family, which are widely used as insect repellents worldwide2.
Rub peppermint leaves on the region where you’ve been bitten by a bug to get the relief you need.
Garlic
Naturally, garlic is well-known for both the health advantages it offers and the strong stench we release after consuming it. Additionally, if we consume too much garlic, it will likely ward off more people than insects!
Fortunately, garlic’s insect-repelling qualities can be experienced without eating it. Few people would like to rub it on their skin to deter insects, especially when there are much better and more pleasant-smelling natural options like citronella.
Garlic has a pungent smell that insects and mosquitoes typically find repulsive, thus it can be effective in warding them off.
Lemon Balm
This also belongs to the mint family and thrives in all environments. Essential oils from the mint family contain insect-repelling qualities, as previously described with peppermint oil.
Marigolds
Marigolds are rarely considered to have any uses other adding color to a garden, but did you know that they also act as a natural insect repellent?
Marigold plants produce flowers that are yellow or orange and have a strong scent. Alpha-terthienyl, a chemical produced by marigolds, has been shown to have insect-repelling properties. The ability of marigold essential oil to deter mosquitoes has also been discovered. 7
Horsemint
This is sometimes referred to as Beebalm, and it has a potent scent that effectively serves as a natural mosquito deterrent. It may be grown in pots and is simple to grow. Therefore, it can deter insects from entering your home when placed next to doors or windows.