Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Catnip (Nepeta cataria): a Eurasian mint-family herb

Catnip, or catmint, has been part of European and Asian botanical tradition for centuries. Known scientifically as Nepeta cataria, it belongs to the Lamiaceae family, the same family as thyme, oregano, and mint. Native to Europe and southwestern and central Asia, it has since naturalised across much of the temperate world. The leaves and flowering tops are the parts used, harvested from a bushy perennial that produces small white or lavender flowers. The plant's most famous association is with felines, whose well-documented response to it is one of the more entertaining facts in the herb world.

Making catnip tea

The standard preparation is a simple infusion. Add 25 g of dried catnip to one litre of water, bring briefly to the boil, then leave to stand for 15 minutes before straining. Honey works well to round out the flavour. The aroma is strongly herbal, pungent in the way thyme and oregano are, with a faint skunky edge that softens once brewed. The taste itself is mint-like and clean. One thing worth noting: the scent is potent enough to attract neighbourhood cats, so store it in a sealed container if that matters to you. Unlike a standard peppermint or chamomile tea, the aroma here is noticeably more assertive straight from the bag.

Advisory Information

Not suitable for persons under 18. Insufficient data on use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult a health professional when using medication, or if suffering from an illness or health complaint.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) data sheet

Format	Natural Form
Brand	Other
Type	Loose-leaf tea

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