What is Catnip? Can it be used?

Catnip, also known as catmint, has gained popularity not only among cats but also among people. This little miracle of nature is often referred to as a “cat magnet.” What is less known, however, is that Catnip can also have a positive effect on our health. What exactly is Catnip, and can it actually be used?

What is Catnip?

Catnip, Latin name Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, which gradually spread to North America. It grows to a height of 50 to 100 cm and is characterized by its gentle scent and small white or purple flowers. The greatest attention is drawn to the compound nepetalactone, found in the leaves and stems, which causes the typical reaction in cats.

However, Catnip is not just a toy for cats — humans have been using it for centuries as a herb with calming effects. Historically, catmint was used in folk medicine to support sleep, reduce stress, and provide mild relief from digestive issues.

Effects of Catnip on humans

Although catmint is best known for its attractiveness to cats, in humans it has mild sedative and relaxing effects. The main benefits include:

• Calming the nervous system – Catnip may help reduce tension and stress, contributing to better sleep.

• Digestive support – the herb has traditionally been used against stomach cramps, bloating, and nausea.

• Mild analgesic ability – some studies suggest that Catnip may slightly relieve headaches or menstrual cramps.

• Antimicrobial effects – extracts from Catnip may inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, although further research is needed for medical use.

Nepetalactone, which is the main active compound, interacts with receptors in the nervous system, leading in humans to gentle relaxation without a strong drowsy effect. This is why Catnip is often added to herbal teas for relaxation.

How can Catnip be used?

There are several ways to safely use catmint:

1. Herbal tea – dried Catnip leaves are poured over with hot water and left to steep for 5–10 minutes. This tea is drunk to promote calm and relaxation.
2. Aromatherapy – Catnip extracts or dried leaves can be added to small pillows, helping with falling asleep.
3. Dried herb – can be used in baths or as part of herbal blends.
4. Dietary supplements – Catnip is sometimes combined with other calming herbs, such as lemon balm or chamomile.

Dosage and safety: Catnip is generally considered safe when used in reasonable amounts. Excessive consumption may cause stomach discomfort or drowsiness in sensitive individuals. For children and pregnant women, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Catnip and cats 

For cats, Catnip has a completely different effect than in humans. Nepetalactone acts on the olfactory receptors and triggers a euphoric reaction in cats — for example, a kitten may roll on the ground, turn over, and play. This effect is temporary and non-addictive.

Catnip (catmint) is safe for humans, and its effects differ from the well-known stimulation in cats.

Catnip vs. Catmint: what is the difference?

Catnip is often confused with a plant known as Catmint. Although both species belong to the genus Nepeta, there are significant differences between them:

• Catnip (Nepeta cataria) – contains a high amount of nepetalactone, the compound that triggers a euphoric reaction in cats. It is suitable for tea, herbal preparations, and cat toys. The leaves and flowers have a stronger aroma and taste.

• Catmint (Nepeta mussinii, N. faassenii and other species) – mostly ornamental plants, lower and more compact, with blue or purple flowers. The content of nepetalactone is much lower, so most cats react to it only mildly. For humans, Catmint also has gentle calming effects, similar to Catnip, but generally less pronounced. It can be used, for example, in tea blends to promote relaxation.

Summary – why Catnip is worth trying

Catnip is a versatile herb with a long history of use:

• In humans, it has calming and mildly sedative effects.
• It supports digestion and may slightly relieve pain.
• It can be used in tea, baths, or as part of aromatherapy.
• Safe with reasonable consumption, with minimal side effects.
• For cats, it has a completely different, stimulating effect thanks to nepetalactone.

If you are looking for a natural way to reduce stress, improve sleep, and give your body gentle relaxation, Catnip (catmint or also Nepeta cataria) is an excellent choice.