Catnip, Official

Catnip

Nepeta cataria

Botanical Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)

Botanical Description

Nepeta cataria is a hardy perennial growing 60-100cm tall with typical mint family characteristics: square stems and opposite, heart-shaped, grey-green leaves with scalloped edges. The leaves have a distinctive minty, slightly skunky aroma that about 70% of cats find irresistible (the response is genetic). White to pale lavender flowers with purple spots appear in whorled spikes.

Medicinal Actions

Primary actions: Carminative, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, mild sedative, febrifuge.

Traditional uses: Before Chinese tea became common in Europe, catnip was a popular beverage tea. Used traditionally for children’s colic, digestive upsets, and to promote sweating during fevers. The mild sedative effect makes it useful for restlessness and anxiety.

Modern use: Gentle enough for children; used for digestive discomfort, colds, and nervous tension. Also used in cat enrichment!

Body Systems Affected

Digestive: Eases gas, bloating, colic, and general digestive discomfort.

Nervous: Mild sedative and calming effects; helps with restlessness and anxiety.

Immune/Respiratory: Diaphoretic for fevers; traditional cold remedy.

Safety Information

Very safe herb – gentle enough for children.

Pregnancy: Avoid during pregnancy due to traditional emmenagogue reputation.

Sedation: May enhance sedative medications.

Cats: The nepetalactone that attracts cats is harmless to them.

Growing Guide

Hardiness: Zones 3-9. Very hardy.

Light: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Average, well-drained soil.

Sowing: Sow in spring. Stratification improves germination.

Spacing: 45cm apart.

Cat protection: Young plants may need protection from cats until established!

Harvesting

Part used: Leaves and flowering tops.

When to harvest: Just before or during early flowering.

Method: Cut stems about 15cm from ground. Will regrow for second harvest.

Drying & Storage

Dry at 35°C (95°F) in a well-ventilated area. Store in airtight containers away from cats! Maintains potency for about 1 year.