6/06/2010

The Use of Catnip

Nepeta cataria (also known as catnip, catswort, or catmint) is a plant in the Lamiaceae family. It is mostly used as a recreational substance for feline enjoyment. Around 2 out of every 3 cats will be affected by the plant, and approximately 2 hours after an exposure, the feline will be sensitive to another dose. Whether it is growing in the wild or harvested and dried, felines will be affected by the plant. The common behaviors that are observed are: rubbing on the plant, rolling on the ground, drooling, or consuming much of the plant. The plant terpenoid nepetalactone is the main chemical constituent of the essential oil of Nepeta cataria and acts as a feline attractant. This chemical enters the feline's nose, and produces semi-hallucinogenic effects on the cat. Catnip has a history of human medicinal use for its soothing effects. It has also been known to have a slightly numbing effect. The plant has been consumed as a tea, juice, tincture, infusion, or poultice and has been smoked. Also, when the active oils in the plant are isolated and refined, they supposedly work as a mosquito repellant. Catnip can also be smoked recreationally, and when combined with tobacco and other herbs, it provides a "minty" taste with mildly intoxicating effects.


Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catnip

See also: Bouquet, Roses, Floral

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