Catnip is also called as- Nepeta cataria, catmint, catswort, and catwort.
Contents
Habitat
This plant species1 indigenous to Central Asia, China, Middle East, and southern and eastern Europe. It is widely naturalized in North America, northern Europe, and New Zealand.
It grows in disturbed areas, like- waste ground, roadsides, field edges, etc. The general name catmint can point to the genus as a combination. This plant is farmed as a decorative plant and spread very quickly for some classes.
Taxonomic information
Order: Lamiales.
Family: Lamiaceae – mints, menthes.
Genus: Nepeta L. – catnip
Species: Nepeta cataria L. , catnip.
Description
Catnip plant develops typically in a growing clump to 2 to 3ft tall. It can be straight, square, branched, grayish stems. The leaves are gray-green and approximately 3-inches long.
The stems are light-green, 4-angled, finely pubescent, and aromatic. Next, the opposing leaves are approximately 4-inches long and 2-inches across. They are ovate with a cordate base or cordate with blunt heads. Next, their margins also have extended crenate teeth.
Parts used
The leaves and flowering tops of the plant are used in dried form. The extracted chemicals are used for various reasons. The main chemical Nepetalactone is obtained from Catnip by steam distillation method.
Chemical constituents
The active chemical compound2 is Nepetalactone. Additionally, ?-Pinene, ?-Pinene, 11-Dodecenol, ?-Humulene, Spathulenol, Caryophyllene oxide, Triplal, Thymol, etc., are identified.
Traditional Uses and benefits
In general, the Catnip acts as a cat attractant. Nepetalactone has behavioral influences on the cat family. For that reason, it is used for the training and enrichment of domestic cats.
Next, flowers and fresh or dried leaves of Catnip are used in making cheese, soup, sauce, etc.
The catnip tea has made of its leaves is known for a hypnotic and sedative activity. For that reason, tea made using catnip leaves can relieve respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders.
In traditional medicines, It has been used for stimulant, antispasmodic, and carminative characteristics.
It may improve the chances of curing internal cancer, scarlet fever, and smallpox.
Catnip oil confined by steam distillation is used as an insect repellent. It’s effective against mosquitoes, termites, and cockroaches. Additionally, it is also used as a pesticide.
Dosage and Precautions
There is no confirmed dosage of Catnip exists. The results may fluctuate based on age, sex, weight, and health conditions. Always consult the physician before administering a catnip comprising drugs.
Toxicity
Constant overuse is harmful to cats. It can slow down the central nervous system of humans, which will induce sleepiness and other effects. A child may encounter irritability, sluggishness, and stomach pain after eating catnip leaves or drinking catnip tea3.
Warning
However, almost one-third of cats are not influenced by Catnip’s principal chemical, Nepetalactone. Administering excessive catnip tea can cause health issues like- vomiting, headaches, and a sensation of illness. It also has moderate drug interaction. Therefore, stop using Catnip after and before surgery. Any woman with PID status should not use it because it can cause menstruation. Similarly, if a woman has heavy menstrual periods, they should not use Catnip because it can cause heavy menstrual periods more seriously.
DISCLAIMER
The content and information on newerapost are for information and educational purposes only. A guide to self-diagnosis and self-treatment is not intended and should not be used as a medical manual. Before beginning the use of any prescription medication and pursuing any self-treatment, all readers are urged to consult a physician.
The information given in this article is intended to help you make informed decisions for your health. You must consult with your doctor before pursuing any natural remedies if you are under care for any health condition. Do not take any vitamins, minerals, herbs, or other supplements without consulting your doctor if you are taking any medication. The website does not make a representation, express or implied, regarding the accuracy of the information and does not accept any single responsibility for any errors or misuse.
Reference
- Plant species: Retrieved from the wikipedia.org website.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catnip
- Chemical compound: Retrieved from the sciencedirect.com website.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3875507/
- Toxicity: Retrieved from medicalnewstoday.com website.
ht https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/nepeta-cataria