The ancient Romans used catnip (Nepeta Cataria) and catmint (Nepeta Faissenii) as food spices as well as cures for ailments such as nervousness, toothache, and the common cold. Modern day holistic health practitioners recommend catnip in capsule or tea formula to address human ailments such as diarrhea, respiratory conditions, poor digestion, headaches, menstrual cramps, insomnia, colds, flu, and infection.
Kitty "High"
It is Nepetalactone, a chemical contained in the plant's leaves and stems that causes europhia in cats. They claw it, roll in it, eat it, and often end the session with a contented snooze. There are no negative side effects, it's absolutely safe and, best of all, it provides excellent mental and physical stimulation.
Domestic and wild felines are the only creatures known to react to Nepetalactone's "high," but not all cats are attracted to it. Approximately 33% of cats show no response while others in this group are actually repelled by it. Kittens show no reaction until their senses are more developed at around three months of age.
Catnip can be purchased in seed or seedling form and grown in pots on windowsills or outside in a sunny garden. Fresh catnip is most potent and, just like any herb, loses its aroma over time. To increase longevity, store it in a dark, dry location. Or buy it dry in bulk or pre-inserted in a wide variety of cat toys. It's also available in a liquid form which is often used to entice a cat to use a designated scratching post rather than household furniture.
Grow Your Own
Facts and Myths
- Catnip and catmint are perennial herbs and members of the mint family. Valued as ground cover by gardeners all over the world, catnip grows in separate plants reaching three feet in height while catmint grows in a mound up to two feet.
- It contains vitamins and minerals such as iron, selenium, potassium, manganese, and chromium.
- Nepetalactone isn't the only naturally-occurring herbal chemical to cause a similar response in cats. Valerian and actinidine, in large amounts, are also known to create a euphoric kitty.
- Catnip attracts bees but deters beetles and rats.
- According to mythology, if you warm it in your hand then hold someone else's hand, that person will be your friend forever. Hang it over your door to attract positive spirits and good luck. Mix it with rose petals and scatter it under your pillow to invite a "happy suitor" to join your life. Unfortunately, the myth doesn't specify whether the suitor will be human or feline.
Jacque Newman - Jacque Newman is a freelance writer with a specialty in family pets of all kinds. She is the founder and former publisher of ...
