Some members of this group are known as catnip or catmint because of their effect on house cats – the nepetalactone contained in some Nepeta species binds to the olfactory receptors of cats, typically resulting in temporary euphoria.

Is catnip and catmint the same?

Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii) is similar to catnip, but does not stimulate cats. It is a low-growing mounded plant with attractive, gray-green foliage. It’s profuse blue flowers appear in early summer and again through the monsoon season. It is heat and drought tolerant once established.

What does catmint do to humans?

It calms and sedates. You may be surprised to learn that catnip is mostly used by humans for its calming and sedative effects. This is a far cry from the wacky effect many cats seem to enjoy. It’s hard to say how effective it is as a sedative, though.