Catnip Essential Oil

Latin Name: Nepeta cataria
Plant Family: Lamiaceae
Extraction: Distillation of the flowering tops

Catnip essential oil is distilled from the flower tops, Catnip essential oil is a pale yellow liquid with a herbaceous woody scent with slight lemony undertones.

A short, medium-sized perennial with heart-shaped, gently toothed leaves, which are covered in a soft greyish down.  From June the nettle-shaped florets appear in mauve whorls around the leafy stems. The whole plant has a scent that is attractive to cats. native to Europe and parts of Asia (Himalayas), naturalized throughout North America and South Africa but cultivated for oil in the Mediterranean region. 

Visit Penny's Catnip Blog for more information, properties and recipes to try using Catnip essential oil.

Catnip, Natural, Pure Essential Oil - Available in 3ml,10ml, 25ml, 50ml & 100ml.

Herbal & Folk Tradition 

There are numerous similar species found around the world, it has a long history as a herbal remedy for nervous and digestive complaints. In aromatherapy, catnip essential oil is helpful for irritability and anger but has been mainly used for nervous and digestive complaints, menstrual conditions, chills and cramps. Mentioned in the British Pharmacopoeia for colic in children.

Blends With

Catnip essential oil is a middle note and blends well with Lemon, Lavender, Geranium, Clary and Niaouli, and although there are no recorded contra-indications, it is not recommended to overuse it during pregnancy.

Safety Data

No known contra-indications, but do not overuse the oil during pregnancy.

Alcohols >49%, aldehydes > 10%.

Catnip Safety Data Sheet