Catnip

Nepeta cataria L.

Common & Folk Names

• Catmint
• Catswort
• Catnep
• Field Balm
• Nep
• Cat’s Wort

Plant Family

Lamiaceae (Mint Family)

Geographic Location

Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Widely naturalised throughout North America, Australia, and temperate regions worldwide. In Aotearoa New Zealand, it is commonly cultivated in gardens and has naturalised in some areas, particularly in disturbed sites and along roadsides.

Habitat

Thrives in disturbed sites, fields, fence lines, roadsides, waste areas, and gardens. Prefers well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil. Drought-tolerant once established. Found from sea level to moderate elevations.

Growing Conditions

Sun: Full sun to partial shade; produces more volatile oils in full sun

Soil: Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil; pH 6.1-7.8; tolerates sandy, rocky, or clay soils; drought-tolerant

Propagation: Easy from seed, cuttings, or division. Seeds germinate in 7-14 days at 20-25°C. Can be directly sown in spring after last frost or started indoors 6-8 weeks earlier. Self-seeds readily.

Care: Low-maintenance perennial. Cut back after flowering to encourage bushier growth and prevent excessive self-seeding. Can be invasive; consider growing in containers. Hardy to USDA Zones 3-9 (thrives in most NZ regions). Space plants 30-45cm apart.

NZ Planting Calendar

Sowing: September–November (spring) when frost risk has passed; can also direct sow in autumn (March–April) in mild regions

Cuttings/Division: October–March (spring through summer)

Harvest: December–February (summer) when in full bloom

Harvesting Guidelines

Harvest aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers) when plant is in full bloom, typically mid to late summer, for highest concentration of volatile oils. Harvest on a sunny day after the morning dew has dried but before the heat of midday. Cut stems 10-15cm from ground, leaving enough growth for plant to regenerate. Dry quickly in a warm, shaded, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to preserve volatile oils. Store dried herb in airtight containers away from light and heat. Properly dried catnip retains potency for 6-12 months.

Parts Used

• Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers)
• Leaves have highest concentration of active compounds

Constituents & Their Actions

Catnip contains a complex array of bioactive compounds that contribute synergistically to its therapeutic effects. The primary constituents include volatile oils, iridoid monoterpenes, tannins, and flavonoids.

Iridoid Monoterpenes (Nepetalactones):

These are the signature compounds of catnip, comprising 70-99% of the essential oil. The primary biologically active isomer is (4aα,7α,7aα)-nepetalactone (cis,trans-nepetalactone), which accounts for the majority of the plant’s therapeutic and cat-attractant properties. Related compounds include dihydronepetalactone, isodihydronepetalactone, and (trans,cis)-nepetalactone.

Some of the main iridoid monoterpenes in catnip are:

• (4aα,7α,7aα)-Nepetalactone (cis,trans-nepetalactone) – primary active compound
• Dihydronepetalactone
• Isodihydronepetalactone
• (cis,cis)-Nepetalactone
• (trans,cis)-Nepetalactone

The main actions of these iridoid monoterpenes are:

• Nervine sedative: Modulates GABAergic and adenosinergic neurotransmitter systems, promoting relaxation without causing hypnotic effects or significant impairment
• Antispasmodic: Relaxes smooth muscle tissue, particularly in the gastrointestinal and uterine systems
• Insect repellent: Powerfully activates olfactory and vomeronasal receptors in insects, providing mosquito and fly repellency comparable to or exceeding DEET in some studies
• Feline attractant: In cats (but not humans), triggers β-endorphin release via olfactory pathways, activating μ-opioid receptors

Volatile Oils (0.3-0.7% of dried herb):

Beyond nepetalactones, catnip contains a variety of aromatic terpenes and phenols that contribute to its carminative, diaphoretic, and antimicrobial properties.

Some of the main volatile oils in catnip are:

• Citronellol
• Geraniol
• Nerol
• Linalool
• Thymol
• Carvacrol (trace amounts)

The main actions of these volatile oils are:

• Carminative: Relieves intestinal gas and bloating by relaxing gastrointestinal smooth muscle and promoting expulsion of gas
• Diaphoretic: Promotes sweating when taken as a warm tea, helping to break fevers and eliminate metabolic wastes
• Antimicrobial: Demonstrates activity against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as some fungal species
• Anxiolytic: Linalool in particular has documented sedative and anti-anxiety effects via modulation of GABA and adenosine receptors

Tannins (Condensed, 2-3%):

Contribute astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.

The main actions of tannins are:

• Astringent: Precipitates proteins on mucous membranes, creating a protective layer and toning tissues
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation in the digestive tract
• Mild antimicrobial: Contributes to overall antimicrobial activity

Flavonoids:

Including quercetin, rutin, and related glycosides.

The main actions of flavonoids are:

• Antioxidant: Scavenges free radicals and reduces oxidative stress
• Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits inflammatory pathways via COX and LOX enzyme inhibition
• Capillary protective: Strengthens blood vessel walls

Other Constituents:

• 7-alpha-hydroxyecdysone: A phytoecdysteroid with theoretical adaptogenic and anabolic properties, though clinical significance in catnip is not well-established
• Rosmarinic acid: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound common in Lamiaceae family

Actions with Mechanisms

Nervine Sedative:
Nepetalactone is believed to modulate both GABAergic and adenosinergic systems in the central nervous system. Unlike benzodiazepines which directly enhance GABA-A receptor function, nepetalactone appears to have a more subtle modulatory effect, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety without causing significant sedation, cognitive impairment, or “hangover” effects. Animal studies demonstrate reduced anxiety-related behaviours in elevated plus maze models, with anxiolytic effects at moderate doses (50-100 mg/kg in mice) without accompanying sedation at these levels. The volatile oil component linalool contributes additional anxiolytic activity through GABA modulation and has been shown to reduce body temperature and increase barbiturate-induced sleeping time in inhalation studies, confirming sedative properties.

Antispasmodic:
The volatile oils, particularly nepetalactones, directly relax smooth muscle tissue throughout the body. In the gastrointestinal tract, this relieves cramping, colic, and gas by reducing excessive peristaltic contractions. The mechanism involves modulation of calcium channels in smooth muscle cells, preventing the calcium influx necessary for muscle contraction. This combined sedative and antispasmodic effect makes catnip particularly valuable for nervous indigestion and stress-related digestive complaints. The antispasmodic action also extends to the uterus, where it can ease menstrual cramps, though this emmenagogue effect means caution is warranted in pregnancy.

Diaphoretic:
When consumed as a hot tea, catnip’s volatile oils stimulate peripheral circulation and promote sweating through activation of sudomotor nerves and vasodilation of cutaneous blood vessels. This physiological response helps reduce fever by increasing heat dissipation through evaporative cooling. The diaphoretic action also facilitates elimination of metabolic wastes and toxins through the skin, making it valuable in the early stages of colds, flu, and other febrile illnesses. This is a classic example of temperature-dependent herbal action–hot tea produces diaphoresis, whilst cool tea emphasises sedative effects.

Carminative:
The aromatic volatile oils relax the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract whilst simultaneously stimulating digestive secretions and promoting normal peristalsis. This dual action helps expel trapped gas, reduces bloating and distention, and eases digestive discomfort. The carminative effect is particularly pronounced when stress or anxiety contributes to digestive dysfunction, as the nervine properties address the underlying nervous tension whilst the volatile oils directly act on the digestive system.

Mild Anodyne (Pain Relief):
The combination of muscle-relaxing, anti-inflammatory, and mild nervine sedative properties provides gentle pain relief, particularly for tension-related pain such as stress headaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle tension. Whilst not a strong analgesic, catnip’s ability to address both the physical tension and mental anxiety that often accompany pain makes it useful for mild to moderate discomfort.

Anti-inflammatory:
Flavonoids and other constituents help modulate inflammatory pathways by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes, reducing production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes. This contributes to catnip’s effectiveness in reducing fever (through hypothalamic effects on the thermoregulatory centre) and soothing digestive inflammation.

Insect Repellent:
Nepetalactone powerfully interacts with olfactory and vomeronasal receptors in insects, creating an intensely aversive response. Studies demonstrate effectiveness against mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti, dengue and Zika vector), stable flies, and cockroaches. Some research suggests nepetalactone is more effective than DEET against certain mosquito species, with added benefits of being non-toxic and pleasant-smelling to humans. The compound is relatively stable compared to other natural insect repellents, though still less persistent than synthetic alternatives.

Main Use

Catnip’s primary use is as a gentle yet effective nervine sedative, antispasmodic, and diaphoretic, particularly valuable for paediatric and adult applications where a safe, non-habit-forming calming agent is needed.

Specifically indicated for:

Paediatric Applications:

• Restlessness, irritability, and fussiness in children
• Fever associated with colds and flu (as a diaphoretic to break fever)
• Colic and digestive upset in infants and children
• Teething discomfort (calming effect helps soothe fretful infants)
• Overexcitement or difficulty settling before bedtime

Adult Applications:

• Nervous dyspepsia (indigestion, gas, bloating triggered or worsened by stress and anxiety)
• Mild insomnia and difficulty falling asleep, particularly in individuals who are overstimulated or “wired”
• Anxiety and nervous tension without need for strong sedation
• Stress-related headaches
• Menstrual cramps (though caution in pregnancy due to emmenagogue properties)
• Acute stress or upset where gentle calming is needed

Additional Uses:

• Topical insect repellent (nepetalactone content)
• Mild cold and flu remedy (diaphoretic action to break fever)
• Digestive tonic for chronic nervous indigestion

Preparations

Tea/Infusion:
1-2 teaspoons (2-4 grams) of dried herb per cup (250ml) of boiling water. Steep covered for 10-15 minutes to retain volatile oils. Strain.

• For fever-breaking (diaphoretic): Drink hot, 1 cup every 2-3 hours as needed
• For sedation/calming: Drink warm or cool, 1 cup 30-60 minutes before bed or as needed for anxiety
• For children: Sweeten with honey (if over 1 year old) to improve palatability. Use ½-1 teaspoon dried herb per cup for young children.

Tincture:
Fresh or dried herb in 1:5 ratio with 40-50% alcohol (e.g., vodka). Macerate for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily. Strain and bottle in dark glass.

• Adult dose: 2-4ml (40-80 drops), up to 3 times daily
• Children’s dose: 0.5-1ml (10-20 drops), 1-3 times daily, diluted in small amount of water or juice

Glycerite (Alcohol-Free):
For children or those avoiding alcohol. Use 1:5 ratio with vegetable glycerin. Macerate for 6-8 weeks. Dose similar to tincture.

Bath:
Strong infusion (4-6 tablespoons dried herb in 1 litre boiling water, steeped 20 minutes) added to bath water. Excellent for soothing restless, fussy children and relieving muscle tension in adults. Can also place dried herb in muslin bag and float in bath.

Compress/Poultice:
Strong tea cooled and applied to swollen joints, minor injuries, or areas of muscle tension. Fresh or dried herb can be moistened and applied directly to skin as poultice.

Insect Repellent Spray:
Strong infusion (4 tablespoons dried herb per cup boiling water, steeped 30 minutes, cooled) strained and placed in spray bottle. Apply to skin or clothing. Patch test first. Reapply every 1-2 hours as needed. Can add a few drops of lavender or citronella essential oil for enhanced effect.

Infused Oil:
For topical use. Pack jar loosely with dried herb, cover completely with olive or sunflower oil, allow to macerate for 4-6 weeks in sunny location, shaking daily. Strain and bottle. Can be used as massage oil for tense muscles or mild insect repellent.

Dosage

Dried Herb (Tea):

• Adult: 1-2 grams (approx. 1-2 teaspoons), steeped as tea, up to 3 times daily
• Children (2-6 years): ¼-½ teaspoon per cup, up to 3 times daily
• Children (7-12 years): ½-1 teaspoon per cup, up to 3 times daily

Tincture (1:5, 40-50% alcohol):

• Adult: 2-4ml (approx. 40-80 drops), up to 3 times daily
• Children (2-6 years): 0.5ml (10 drops), 1-3 times daily
• Children (7-12 years): 1-2ml (20-40 drops), 1-3 times daily

Topical Use:

• Infused oil or strong tea: Apply as needed, 2-4 times daily
• Insect repellent: Reapply every 1-2 hours or after swimming/sweating

Safety & Drug Interactions

Scientific Evidence

Insect Repellent:
Multiple peer-reviewed studies have confirmed that nepetalactone is a highly effective insect repellent. Zhang et al. (2018) and Birkett et al. (2011) demonstrated efficacy against mosquitoes including Aedes aegypti (dengue and Zika vector), with some research suggesting potency equal to or exceeding DEET against certain species. Nepetalactone also shows activity against stable flies and cockroaches. The compound is relatively stable compared to other botanical repellents, though requires more frequent reapplication than synthetic alternatives.

Sedative & Anxiolytic Effects:
Massoco et al. (1995) demonstrated significant behavioural effects of catnip in mice, including sedative and anxiety-reducing properties. Rabbani et al. (2008) studying Nepeta persica (a closely related species with similar nepetalactone content) found anxiolytic effects at 50 mg/kg body weight in elevated plus maze tests, with mice spending significantly more time in open areas, indicating reduced anxiety. Notably, the anxiolytic effect occurred without accompanying sedation at therapeutic doses, and the effect followed an inverted U-shaped dose-response curve. Pultrini et al. (2006) confirmed central nervous system depressant effects of Nepeta cataria essential oil, supporting traditional use as a nervine sedative. The proposed mechanism involves modulation of GABA and adenosine receptor systems.

Linalool (component of volatile oil):
Inhaled linalool (a component of catnip’s volatile oil) demonstrated marked sedative and anticonvulsant activity in mice, reducing body temperature and increasing pentobarbital-induced sleeping time without impairing motor coordination, unlike most anxiolytic drugs.

Antimicrobial:
Adiguzel et al. (2009) demonstrated that catnip essential oil possesses antimicrobial activity against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in in vitro studies. The same study confirmed moderate to strong antioxidant activity using DPPH and FRAP assays.

Traditional Use Documentation:
Catnip’s use as a paediatric febrifuge (fever-reducer) and calming agent is extensively documented in classical herbal texts including those of Nicholas Culpeper (17th century) and Maude Grieve (1931). It has been continuously used in Western folk medicine for at least 300 years.

Limitations:
Most research focuses on animal studies or in vitro work. Human clinical trials are limited. More research is needed to fully elucidate mechanisms of action and confirm traditional uses in controlled clinical settings.

Western Energetics

Temperature: Cooling. Catnip is indicated for conditions characterised by heat, including fever, inflammation, and states of agitation or hyperexcitation. Its diaphoretic action helps dissipate excess internal heat through sweating.

Moisture: Neutral to Slightly Drying. The diaphoretic action can be drying through fluid loss via sweating, but catnip is not strongly astringent like oak or uva ursi. Its overall moisture quality is relatively neutral.

Tissue State: Primarily indicated for:

• Heat/Excitation: Fever, restlessness, irritability, anxiety, nervous agitation, inflammatory conditions
• Tension/Constriction: Muscle tension, cramping (intestinal or uterine), spasmodic conditions, tension headaches

Catnip is particularly valuable for individuals experiencing both heat and tension–the anxious, “wired” person with digestive upset, or the feverish, restless child who cannot settle.

Taste

Pungent/Aromatic: Derived from the volatile oils (nepetalactones, citronellol, geraniol, thymol). The pungency stimulates circulation and digestive function.

Slightly Bitter: From the iridoids (nepetalactones) and tannins. Bitterness is said to cool heat and has a mild tonic effect on the digestive system.

Minty/Earthy: Overall flavour profile is pleasant and mint-like, though distinctly different from peppermint or spearmint. The taste is milder and more subtle, with an earthy, slightly sweet undertone.

The aromatic, pungent quality connects to catnip’s diaphoretic and carminative actions (moving, stimulating), whilst the bitter quality relates to its cooling and sedating properties.

Plant Lore

The genus name Nepeta is derived from the ancient Etruscan city of Nepeti (now Nepi in Lazio, Italy), where the plant was reportedly cultivated extensively in Roman times. The common name “catnip” refers to the plant’s famous effect on domestic cats, which has been documented since at least the 1600s.

In cats, nepetalactone triggers a fascinating behavioural response mediated through the vomeronasal organ and olfactory system. When cats smell catnip, the compound binds to olfactory receptors, signalling the olfactory bulb and subsequently the amygdala (emotional responses) and hypothalamus (behavioural/neuroendocrine responses). This triggers β-endorphin release, which activates μ-opioid receptors, producing effects similar to natural feline sex pheromones. Approximately 70-80% of cats inherit the genetic trait (autosomal dominant) that makes them responsive to catnip; the remaining 20-30% show no reaction. Kittens under 6 months of age are typically unresponsive until sexual maturity. Lions, tigers, and leopards also respond to catnip, demonstrating the evolutionary conservation of this response across Felidae. Interestingly, the response is entirely olfactory–oral ingestion has no effect.

In human herbal tradition, catnip has been used since at least Roman times for digestive and nervous complaints. In medieval Europe, it was grown in monastery gardens for its medicinal properties. Before the widespread availability of Chinese tea in Europe, catnip tea was a popular beverage, consumed both for pleasure and for its mild calming effects. The herb was traditionally given to restless or colicky infants, and this practice continues in modern herbalism.

In early American folk medicine, catnip was one of the most commonly used household remedies, kept on hand for fevers, colds, colic, and nervousness. The Shakers, known for their extensive medicinal herb cultivation, grew catnip commercially in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The plant’s ability to repel insects, now confirmed by modern science, was likely recognised empirically by traditional cultures, though historical documentation is limited.

Additional Information

Cultivation Notes:
Catnip is one of the easiest herbs to grow and is an excellent choice for beginner herbalists. It self-seeds readily and can become invasive if not managed. To prevent unwanted spreading, remove flower heads before seeds mature, or grow in containers. Cats will be attracted to the plant and may roll on it or chew leaves, potentially damaging plants. If growing for medicinal use, protect young plants with chicken wire until well-established, or grow in a protected area away from cats.

Comparison with Valerian:
Catnip is often compared to valerian (Valeriana officinalis), another nervine sedative. Whilst both are calming, catnip is significantly gentler and more appropriate for children and daytime use. Valerian has a much stronger sedative effect and can cause morning grogginess or “hangover” effects in some individuals; catnip rarely does. Valerian has an intensely unpleasant odour (often compared to dirty socks); catnip has a pleasant, minty aroma. However, for severe insomnia or high anxiety, valerian is generally more effective, whilst catnip excels for mild to moderate nervousness and paediatric applications.

Use in Children:
Catnip’s safety profile and gentle action make it one of the premier paediatric nervines in Western herbalism. It is particularly valuable for:

• Calming fretful, overtired, or overstimulated children
• Supporting restful sleep without causing morning drowsiness
• Soothing digestive upset (colic, gas, upset stomach)
• Reducing fever in combination with other appropriate measures
• Easing teething discomfort

The traditional practice of giving catnip tea to infants (often combined with fennel for colic) continues to be supported by modern herbalists, though honey should be avoided in children under 1 year due to botulism risk.

Combining with Other Herbs:
Catnip combines well with:

• Chamomile: For enhanced calming, digestive support, and paediatric applications
• Lemon balm: For anxiety with digestive upset
• Peppermint or Fennel: For enhanced carminative effect in digestive complaints
• Elder flower and Yarrow: As a traditional fever-reducing blend (diaphoretic trio)
• Passionflower or Hops: For stronger sedative effect in adults (not recommended for children)

Storage:
Dried catnip loses potency relatively quickly compared to some herbs due to volatile oil degradation. Store in airtight containers away from light and heat. Freezing dried catnip can help preserve volatile oil content. Fresh catnip can be frozen for later use in teas. Tinctures maintain potency for 3-5 years if stored properly.

Sources

Zhang, Q.-H., et al. (2018). Nepetalactone from Catnip as a Potent Mosquito Repellent. ACS Omega, 3(9), 11366-11371.

Birkett, M. A., et al. (2011). The Chemistry and Applications of African Plant Essential Oils. Phytochemistry, 72(13), 1605-1611.

Massoco, C. O., et al. (1995). Behavioral effects of acute and chronic administration of catnip (Nepeta cataria) in mice. Veterinary and Human Toxicology, 37(6), 531-533.

Pultrini, A. M., et al. (2006). Effects of the essential oil from Nepeta cataria on the central nervous system. International Journal of Phytomedicine and Related Industries, 8(1), 23-28.

Adiguzel, A., et al. (2009). Screening of Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Nepeta cataria Essential Oils. Journal of Medicinal Food, 12(4), 894-898.

Rabbani, M., Sajjadi, S. E., & Mohammadi, A. (2008). Evaluation of the anxiolytic effect of Nepeta persica Boiss. in mice. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 5(2), 181-186.

Grieve, M. (1931). A Modern Herbal. Dover Publications (1971 reprint).

Bone, K., & Mills, S. (2013). Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine (2nd ed.). Churchill Livingstone.

Waller, G. R., Price, G. H., & Mitchell, E. D. (1969). Feline attractant, cis,trans-nepetalactone: Metabolism in the domestic cat. Science, 164(3885), 1281-1282.

Todd, N. B. (1962). Inheritance of the catnip response in domestic cats. Journal of Heredity, 53(2), 54-56.

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