Catmint and Catnip: Learn about the many uses of the Nepeta cataria plant!

Author: Emilien Drug discoverer and researcher with strong expertise in neuroscience, psychopharmacology, research chemicals, and psychoactive substances.

Catmint and Catnip: Learn about the many uses of the Nepeta cataria plant!

Catmint, better known as catnip,  (latin name: Nepeta cataria), is your cat's favorite plant—but did you know it's also a multi-use herb? From sending felines into a playful mania to soothing human nerves in a calming tea, catmint has plenty of tricks up its leafy sleeves! But its magic doesn’t stop there; it’s also an effective insect repellent and easy to grow in your garden. Ready to explore the wonders of catmint? Let’s dive in!

Catmint vs Catnip: Know the differences

Before diving into the uses of these herbs, it’s important to clarify the difference between catmint and catnip. Both belong to the Nepeta genus, but they serve slightly different purposes.

Catmint typically refers to most plant species in the Nepeta genus, like Nepeta faassenii, Nepeta nepetella, Nepeta racemosa, and an impressive 295 more!  Catmints are popular in gardens for their beautiful, aromatic flowers and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Most of the plants in the genus contain the molecule that interests us today: nepetalactone, however the amount each subtype contains can vary.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is the variety most well-known for driving cats crazy due to its high concentration of nepetalactone, the compound that causes the euphoric reaction in felines. It’s this specific type of catmint that’s used in cat toys, treats, and even herbal teas for humans. So, while all catnip is a catmint, not all catmint plants will have the same efficacy. Keep reading if you want to know more about Catnip and Catmint!

Catmint and cats: A chemical love story

Cats and catmint, the latter being available at Sirius Smartshop, are a match made in (herbal) heaven, thanks to one key ingredient: nepetalactone. Found in the leaves and stems of catnip (a type of catmint plant), this compound is the reason your feline friend loses their mind over a simple whiff. When cats sniff or lick catnip, nepetalactone binds to receptors in their nasal tissue, triggering a response that makes them feel euphoric. Some cats get playful, rolling around, pawing at the air, or chasing invisible mice, while others become physically relaxed.

So, what does catnip do to cats exactly? It creates a short-lived burst of joy or calm, lasting around 10 to 15 minutes before they return to their usual behaviors. And why do cats like catnip so much? The scent of nepetalactone mimics feline pheromones, which explains why your cat might act like they're in a lovey-dovey trance. Some say cats experience the same effect as when we, humans, consume opioids! But here’s the kicker: not all cats are affected by catnip—about 30% don’t react at all! Some might consume Catnip as well. So, can cats eat catnip safely? Definitely! It may even help them with their digestive tract.

How to give your cat catnip?

Giving your cat catnip is easy and fun! You can sprinkle dried catnip on their favorite toy, scratching post, or directly on the floor. Most cats will immediately start smelling it and rolling it all over them frantically! Another option is catnip-infused toys, which release the scent when played with. If you prefer a tidier option, catnip spray works wonders on furniture or beds.

Catmint and Catnip for humans and beyond

Catnip has been used in folk medicine for centuries for treating symptoms of insomnia, anxiety, and digestive issues. In medieval Europe, it was a common herb in gardens, prized for its calming effects on humans and its ability to attract cats. Over time, catnip also became popular in North America, where it continues to be a favorite in herbal remedies and pet products.

While catmint (particularly catnip) is famous for driving cats wild, it has a gentler, more calming effect on humans. One of the most common catmint uses for people is in herbal teas. Sipping on a warm cup of catnip tea can help soothe nerves, ease cramps, and calm digestive issues. Its mildly sedative properties have been renowned in folk medicine for centuries. So, is catnip psychoactive for humans? The answer is yes, but only mildly, don’t expect to have the same type of reaction your cat has, or even a substantial sedation comparable to modern medication. Unlike its intense effects on cats, catnip produces a light sense of relaxation in people - think of it as a natural, herbal chill pill rather than anything trippy.

How to use catnip for your own needs?

Simply steep about 2g of dried catnip leaves in 150ml of hot water for about 10 minutes to create a calming, herbal drink. Use a high quality digital scale to help you find the perfect amount for your needs. This tea is known to help with stress relief, nervousness, and even mild digestive issues.

Other uses for catnip

But what is catnip used for beyond teas? It turns out this humble plant has a surprising role in pest control. Catnip oil, particularly its active compound nepetalactone, has been shown to repel mosquitoes, flies, and even cockroaches. Studies suggest that while it’s less potent than chemical repellents like DEET, catnip can still provide a natural, chemical-free way to keep those pesky bugs at bay. Whether you're looking for a calming cup of tea or a natural insect repellent, catmint is more than just your cat’s favorite herb!

Safety and legality of Catnip and Catmint

When it comes to the safety of catmint and catnip for both humans and pets, there’s little to worry about, but a few precautions can be taken to be as safe as possible. First off, can cats overdose on catnip? The short answer is no. While cats can’t technically overdose, too much catnip might lead to temporary disinterest or mild digestive upset, like vomiting or diarrhea. So it’s best to not dump grams of dried catnip on your pet or his toys - just sprinkle some once or twice a week to keep your kitty happy without overdoing it.

As for humans, catmint is generally safe. Its mild sedative properties make it a popular choice in teas, and it poses no significant risk when consumed or applied as an insect repellent. However, if you have any allergies to plants in the mint family, it's a good idea to test for reactions first by keeping the plant on your skin for 15 minutes and look for any allergic symptoms. So, is catmint dangerous? Not really, as long as it’s used sensibly!

Now, is catnip legal? Absolutely! The Catnip plant is perfectly legal worldwide and commonly sold in pet stores and herbal shops. At Sirius, we offer catnip from Open Up, our house-own brand for high-quality herbs and extracts! Just remember to introduce it to your pets gradually, watching for any unusual reactions, and always store it in a dry, cool place to maintain its potency.

Can dogs get high from Catnip?

While catnip may send your cat into a joyful frenzy, it doesn’t have the same effect on dogs. In fact, dogs won’t experience the euphoric or hyperactive reactions that cats do. Instead, if a dog consumes catnip, some say it might have slight calming effects, making it useful for reducing anxiety or stress in certain situations, like during a car ride.

Is catnip bad for dogs? Not at all! That said, the key is moderation. Offering a small amount of catnip in their food or water might help soothe a nervous dog. However, overdoing it could cause mild digestive upset, like diarrhea or vomiting. While catnip isn't harmful to dogs, it's important to remember that dogs react differently than cats, and its benefits are less pronounced. If you're looking for a calming herb for your dog, catnip could be worth trying, but don’t expect any zoomies or rolling around in bliss!

How to grow Catmint and Catnip at home

Growing catmint and catnip plants at home is surprisingly easy, making it perfect for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. To start, you’ll want to get your hands on some catmint seeds. These seeds can be planted in well-drained soil, preferably in a sunny spot, although catmint can tolerate partial shade. Once planted, water regularly until the seedlings are established, after which catmint becomes quite drought-resistant and low-maintenance.

What does catnip look like? Catnip (a variety of catmint) typically has soft, green-to-gray leaves with a slightly fuzzy texture. The plant produces clusters of small white or purple flowers that bloom in late spring or summer. In terms of size, catnip plants grow to about 60 to 90 cm tall and tend to grow outward.

To care for your plants, simply trim them back after flowering to encourage new growth, and if you want to keep them in check, pruning them regularly will prevent overgrowth. Catmint is great for borders, garden beds, or even containers. Its hardy nature makes it resistant to pests, and best of all, it’s drought-tolerant once established. A perfect herb for both you and your pets!

Catmint and Catnip are not the only plants you can benefit from!

Catmint and catnip offer much more than just entertainment for your feline friends. From providing joy and relaxation to cats, to acting as a calming herbal remedy for humans, their versatility is unmatched. Catnip has long been used in teas for stress relief, while its natural insect-repellent properties make it a useful addition to any home. Plus, it's easy-care nature and drought resistance make catmint a fantastic ornamental plant for any garden, adding beauty while attracting pollinators like bees.

If you are curious about expanding your natural pharmacy with more than just Catmint, other herbs like Skullcap, Blue Lotus, and Valerian from the premium brand Open Up also offer calming and wellness benefits, making them great companions to explore in your medicinal herb journey! If you want to get personal advice on what herb fits your needs, visit our physical Smartshops in Maastricht, Roermond, or Venlo and get in touch with Sirius’ customer service.

Emilien Drug discoverer and researcher with strong expertise in neuroscience, psychopharmacology, research chemicals, and psychoactive substances.

Drug discoverer and researcher with strong expertise in neuroscience, psychopharmacology, research chemicals, and psychoactive substances. Passionate about accurately conveying information on drug research, consumption, and effects to end widespread misconceptions.
5+ years of experience

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