Catmint, a perennial herb, is most famous for its strong effect on felines, but its aroma is a distinct experience for humans as well. This plant, commonly known as catnip, is scientifically classified as Nepeta cataria and belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which also includes true mints like peppermint and spearmint. While its family connection suggests a minty profile, the actual scent is far more complex and unique.
The Human Perception of Catmint’s Aroma
For humans, the scent of catmint is highly aromatic, but typically much softer and less sharp than the cool sensation of peppermint. The herb’s fragrance is often described as a complex blend of herbaceous, slightly sweet, and earthy notes. Fresh catmint leaves possess a green, warm, and somewhat musky odor, sometimes carrying a faint undertone of wood or citrus. This full scent profile is released when the leaves or stems are bruised or crushed. Dried catmint, the form most often found in pet products, tends to have a more subdued, grass-like smell.
The Chemical Source of the Scent
The aroma humans perceive comes from the volatile essential oils produced by the plant. The most recognized chemical component is nepetalactone, a terpene that is the primary volatile oil in Nepeta cataria. This compound is stored in glandular hairs called trichomes, which are found on the surface of the plant’s leaves and stems. While nepetalactone is the compound responsible for the feline reaction, other volatile compounds also contribute to the overall human sensory experience. These other components, such as geranyl acetate and citronellol, contribute to the plant’s herbaceous and sometimes citrusy notes.
Why Catmint Affects Felines
The intense behavioral reaction seen in domestic cats and other felids is directly caused by inhaling the nepetalactone compound. When a cat smells the crushed catmint, nepetalactone binds to receptors in the cat’s nasal tissue, which stimulates areas of the brain associated with emotion and behavior. This reaction is thought to be a chemical mimicry, as nepetalactone resembles a feline pheromone. The response is a genetic trait, meaning only a portion of the cat population is susceptible to the effects. Studies suggest that approximately 50 to 70 percent of cats inherit the sensitivity to nepetalactone. The reaction is also dependent on age, as kittens under six months old typically do not exhibit the characteristic rolling, rubbing, and temporary euphoria seen in adult cats.