Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae. While the entire plant contains the active compound nepetalactone, the flowering tops are the most concentrated source of this volatile oil. Nepetalactone is the chemical responsible for the herb’s famous euphoric effect on susceptible felines. Proper harvesting and preservation maximize the potency and versatility of this aromatic herb for both pet enrichment and personal herbal use.
Optimal Harvesting and Processing the Flowering Tops
Timing the harvest is crucial to capture the highest concentration of nepetalactone. The optimal period is when the catnip plant is in full bloom, typically during the mid-summer months, but before the flowers begin to fade or set seed.
To collect the flowers efficiently, use sharp, clean shears to cut the entire flowering stems, taking the top six to eight inches of the plant. Cutting the stems encourages the plant to produce new growth, often allowing for a second, smaller harvest later in the season. It is best to harvest on a dry day, after the morning dew has completely evaporated, to minimize the risk of mold developing during the drying process.
Once harvested, the stems must be dried quickly and gently to preserve the volatile oils. Air drying involves bundling stems loosely and hanging them upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area. Direct sunlight and high heat degrade nepetalactone, so a shaded, airy space is necessary. Alternatively, a food dehydrator can be used, set to a low temperature (95°F to 105°F), which speeds the process while protecting the oils. The catnip is fully dry when the stems snap easily and the leaves and flowers crumble when handled.
Storing Catnip Flowers for Potency
Proper storage immediately after drying is essential to maintain the concentration of nepetalactone over time. The dried flowers and leaves should be stripped from the brittle stems and placed into an airtight container.
The biggest enemies of potency are light, humidity, and heat, which cause the essential oils to break down. Therefore, containers must be stored in a consistently cool, dark place, such as a pantry or a closed cabinet. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids are an excellent choice. For the longest shelf life, store the dried flowers whole and only crush or grind them immediately before use, as keeping the plant matter intact protects the oils within the cell walls.
Using Catnip Flowers for Feline Enrichment
The dried catnip flowers provide an intense source of enrichment for cats due to the concentrated nepetalactone. The primary and most common application is using the dried flowers as stuffing for homemade or refillable toys. Grinding the dried material just before filling the toy releases the maximum amount of aromatic oil, resulting in the strongest immediate reaction from your cat.
The potent material can be used as a targeted attractant to encourage desired behaviors. Sprinkle a small amount of the crushed flowers onto scratching posts, bedding, or in new carriers to make them more appealing. This helps to mentally stimulate indoor cats, encouraging natural behaviors like pouncing, rolling, and rubbing. Introducing catnip in small doses, perhaps a few times a week, can prevent a cat from becoming desensitized to the effects of the active compound.
Herbal Applications Beyond the Feline
Beyond its use for felines, the dried catnip flower tops have a long history of use in human herbal traditions. It is best known for its mild, calming properties, acting as a nervine to ease anxiety and promote relaxation. This effect is distinct from the stimulating reaction observed in cats, as the nepetalactone acts as a mild sedative in humans.
One of the simplest ways to use the dried flowers is by preparing a soothing herbal infusion, commonly called catnip tea. To make the tea, steep one to two teaspoons of the dried material in one cup of boiling water for ten to fifteen minutes. This warm beverage is often consumed to aid with nervousness, mild insomnia, and digestive upset. The essential oils also contain insect-repellent properties. These oils can be incorporated into salves or simple tinctures for topical application, providing a natural method for deterring pests like mosquitoes and ticks.