What is Catnip

Catnip, also known as Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is widely recognized for its psychoactive effects on cats, who are attracted to the plant's distinctive scent. However, catnip has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries and is commonly used today as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments.

History

Catnip has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. It was first documented as a medicinal herb in ancient Greece, where it was used to treat everything from anxiety to menstrual cramps. In medieval Europe, catnip was used as a natural remedy for a range of ailments, including fever, coughs, and headaches.

Catnip's use as a recreational herb for cats was first noted in the 1700s. Since then, catnip has been a popular herb for cat owners to give to their pets to enjoy.

Botanical Info

Catnip is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has a square stem and green leaves that are heart-shaped and toothed. The flowers are white or pale purple, arranged in clusters at the ends of the stems. Catnip is native to Europe and Asia, but it is widely cultivated in North America.

Chemistry

Catnip contains a chemical compound called nepetalactone, which is responsible for its psychoactive effects on cats. When cats smell or consume nepetalactone, it binds to receptors in the brain, causing a range of behaviors, including rubbing, rolling, and licking.

In addition to nepetalactone, catnip contains a range of other chemical compounds, including essential oils, tannins, and flavonoids, which are believed to be responsible for its medicinal properties.

Effects

Catnip has a range of effects on cats, including relaxation, euphoria, and increased playfulness. Cats may roll around, rub their faces on the plant, and exhibit other playful behaviors when exposed to catnip.

In humans, catnip is believed to have a range of medicinal properties, including anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, and sedative effects. It is also used as a natural remedy for digestive issues, such as bloating and gas.

Usage

Catnip is primarily used by cat owners as a recreational herb for their pets. The plant can be dried and crushed, and the resulting powder can be sprinkled on toys or scratching posts to encourage play.

In humans, catnip can be consumed as a tea or taken in supplement form. It is also commonly used as an essential oil or in topical creams to relieve pain and inflammation.

Medicinal Use

Catnip has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It is believed to have a range of health benefits, including:

    Relieving anxiety and stress
    Reducing inflammation and pain
    Promoting digestion and relieving digestive issues
    Improving sleep and relaxation

Catnip is also used as a natural remedy for menstrual cramps, headaches, and colds.

Cultivation

Catnip is a relatively easy plant to grow and can be cultivated in most gardens. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil and can be propagated by seed or by dividing mature plants. Catnip is a hardy plant and can survive in a range of temperatures, but it should be protected from frost, as well as neibourhood cats.

Storage

Dried catnip should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its potency. Fresh catnip can be stored in the refrigerator in a plastic bag for up to two weeks.

References

"Nepeta cataria L. (Catnip)" by Ingrid K. Kohlstadt, MD

Wikipedia Catnip Page