Nepeta cataria

Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, is a species of the genus Nepeta in the family Lamiaceae, native to southern and eastern Europe, the Middle East, central Asia, and parts of China. It is also widely naturalized in northern Europe, New Zealand, and North America.

Description[edit | edit source]

Nepeta cataria is a short-lived perennial, herbaceous plant that grows to 50–100 cm (20–39 in) tall and wide. The plant features coarse-toothed leaves and white to pale pink flowers with purple spots.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

Nepeta cataria is cultivated as an ornamental plant for use in gardens. It is also grown for its attractant qualities to house cats and butterflies.

Uses[edit | edit source]

The plant is used for its sedative effects in humans. The effect is attributed to the nepetalactone that is present in the plant. It is also used in herbal medicine for its antispasmodic, carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, nervine, stomachic, stimulant, astringent, and sedative properties.

In popular culture[edit | edit source]

Nepeta cataria is well known for its effects on felines, not just domestic cats. Large cats such as lions, tigers, and leopards also react to this plant.

References[edit | edit source]

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