Hey there, dear readers! Welcome to California Prime Recovery’s blog, where we strive to provide you with informative and engaging content about addiction treatment and wellness. Have you ever wondered, “Can you smoke catnip to get high?” This question arises often due to the plant’s well-known effects on cats, most notably on our feline friends. Catnip, an herb from the mint family, has an active ingredient called nepetalactone that causes intense reactions in many mammals, especially cats. While cats get a noticeable high from catnip, what about humans? This herb, often smoked or consumed as tea, has been surrounded by myths and mixed reports about its effects on humans and its potential health benefits. Catnip is often consumed as tea, which can induce a sense of relaxation and mild sedation in humans. Additionally, catnip’s antimicrobial properties can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi, potentially treating and preventing oral infections. Some studies have also reported that catnip has aphrodisiac properties. In this article, we’ll delve into the science behind catnip, its impact on both cats and humans, and whether smoking catnip can lead to symptoms like those caused by other drugs.
What is Catnip in the Mint Family?
Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is responsible for its effects on cats. Because cats love catnip, many enter a brief euphoric frenzy marked by rolling, rubbing, and vocalizing. Nepetalactone binds to receptors in their nasal tissue, triggering this temporary response. Cats smell catnip through specialized nasal receptors, and the scent signal reaches the olfactory bulb and creates the behavioral response. This peculiar reaction has long fascinated cat owners and researchers alike.
Types of Catnip
Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is a member of the mint family and is well-known for its effects on cats. There are several varieties and types of catnip, each with its own unique characteristics and growing conditions. Here are some common types of catnip:
Common Catnip (Nepeta cataria): This is the most well-known and widely available type of catnip. Common catnip has heart-shaped, gray-green leaves and produces small, white flowers with purple spots. It contains the compound nepetalactone, which is responsible for its effects on cats.
Lemon Catnip (Nepeta cataria citriodora): Lemon catnip is a variety of common catnip that has a lemony fragrance. It is similar in appearance to common catnip but has a citrusy scent that some cats find especially appealing.
Nepeta racemosa (Racemose Catmint): This type of catnip is native to parts of Europe and Asia. It has small, lavender-blue flowers and a compact, bushy growth habit. Racemose catmint is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. This type of catnip features lavender flowers, which contribute to its appeal and attractiveness for cats.
Nepeta grandiflora (Large-flowered Catmint): Large-flowered catmint is another ornamental variety of catnip that is prized for its showy flowers. It produces larger flowers in shades of blue, purple, or pink and has a more upright growth habit compared to other types of catnip.
Nepeta mussinii (Mussin’s Catmint): This type of catnip is native to the Caucasus region and is known for its low-growing, spreading habit. It has small, lavender-blue flowers and is often used as a ground cover or edging plant in garden borders.
Nepeta faassenii (Faassen’s Catmint): Faassen’s catmint is a hybrid variety that is popular in gardens and landscapes. It has gray-green foliage and produces clusters of lavender-blue flowers. It is prized for its long blooming period and low maintenance requirements.
Nepeta subsessilis (Japanese Catmint): This type of catnip is native to Japan and has large, heart-shaped leaves and spikes of lavender-blue flowers. Japanese catmint is often grown in shady or partially shaded areas and is valued for its attractive foliage.
These are just a few examples of the many types of catnip available. Each variety may have slightly different growth habits, flower colors, and fragrances, but they all share the common trait of containing nepetalactone, the compound that affects cats. Whether grown for its ornamental value in gardens or as a treat for feline companions, catnip adds interest and delight to both humans and cats alike.
The Catnip Experience for Cats: How Cats Encounter Catnip
Catnip can produce a range of reactions in cats, most commonly excitement and playfulness. After exposure, some cats become more energetic and engage in behaviors like chasing, pouncing, or batting at objects. Others may experience a sense of euphoria or relaxation, often shown through purring, kneading, rolling, or rubbing against catnip-covered surfaces.
Many cats sniff, lick, or chew catnip leaves or toys, which helps release nepetalactone, the active compound responsible for catnip’s effects. These reactions are temporary and usually last only a few minutes before the cat loses interest and returns to normal behavior. Not all cats respond to catnip—sensitivity is hereditary, with an estimated 50–70% of cats affected, while kittens under six months often show no response.
Catnip is generally safe when used in moderation and can provide enrichment and stimulation. However, excessive exposure may lead to overstimulation or mild digestive upset, so it’s best offered occasionally rather than continuously.
Can You Get High Off Catnip?
For cats, nepetalactone triggers euphoric behaviors by binding to nasal receptors. Humans, however, lack these receptors, so catnip does not cause a psychoactive high. Catnip does not produce mind altering effects or significant psychoactive properties in people. At best, it may provide mild relaxation similar to herbal teas.
Some people have tried smoking catnip, but unlike smoking marijuana, catnip does not produce a high or mind-altering effects. The effects of smoking catnip are generally limited to a mild sense of calm or may offer mild relaxation, but do not result in euphoria or intoxication. Studies show no meaningful psychoactive effects. While generally safe, its benefits for humans are limited to mild calming effects or traditional herbal uses.
Is Catnip a Drug?
Catnip is not considered a drug in the traditional sense. Consuming catnip, whether through smoking or other means, is generally not addictive but may lead to psychological dependence, especially when combined with other substances in a catnip cocktail. It is classified as an herb and is available legally as a supplement. It is commonly used in herbal teas and remedies, but it is not regulated as a controlled substance. Can you get high off catnip? While too much exposure to smoking catnip may affect humans, it’s generally harmless, and feline friends enjoy its effects much more than we do. A cat owner should know that catnip is not a drug, but a loose herb that makes cats high, causing common behaviors that cats feel, and catnip works in different forms for each individual cat.
Catnip oil components compared to plant essential oils, including five plant essential oils that may influence adherence and enzyme production. However, too much catnip can lead to feeding deterrent effects in some animals, and while some may consider substance abuse through smoking catnip, catnip tea is a safer alternative for human consumption.
Smoking catnip or choosing to smoke catnip may provide a mild sedative effect, similar to drinking a soothing herbal tea.
Side Effects of Catnip for Humans
Though usually safe, catnip may cause mild side effects in sensitive individuals:
Drowsiness: Relaxation or sedation, similar to chamomile tea. Rarely, auditory hallucinations may occur.
Headaches: Some may experience headaches or migraines.
Nausea: Ingesting catnip, especially in large amounts, can upset the stomach and cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Allergic Reactions: Possible itching, rash, hives, or breathing difficulty in those allergic to mint-family plants.
Individual Sensitivity: Effects vary based on age, health, and genetics.
Overall, catnip is safe for most people when used moderately. Those with persistent or severe reactions should seek medical advice.
Risks of Smoking Catnip and Getting High
Can you smoke catnip? This perennial herb can produce a mild euphoric effect when smoked, but it is not typically associated with substance abuse. While catnip is not typically used by humans to induce psychoactive effects, there are some potential risks associated with ingesting or inhaling catnip, especially in large quantities or for individuals who may be sensitive to its effects. It’s essential to understand these risks before using catnip for any purpose. Smoking catnip affects humans differently and can have potentially dangerous consequences. According to the American Cancer Society, smoking any substance, including herbal incense, can lead to unforeseen physical and mental consequences, and carries carcinogenic risks. While catnip’s antimicrobial properties could potentially treat and prevent oral infections, smoking catnip or herbal incense is not recommended due to health risks. In a scientific study, rats fed chow enriched with catnip leaves exhibited increased sexual behaviors and penile erections.
What Happens if you Smoke Catnip?
While often compared to other herbs, smoking catnip produces minimal effects in humans and lacks true psychoactive impact. However, smoking herbs in general can have varying effects and risks depending on the specific plant used. Here are some potential risks of getting high off catnip for humans:
Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to catnip or other plants in the mint family. Allergic reactions to catnip may include itching, rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any allergic symptoms after exposure to catnip, discontinue use and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist.
Digestive Upset: Ingesting large quantities of catnip may lead to digestive upset or gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals. This may include symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. It’s essential to use catnip in moderation and discontinue use if you experience any adverse digestive symptoms.
Drowsiness or Sedation: Catnip may have mild sedative effects on some individuals, leading to feelings of drowsiness or relaxation. While this effect is generally mild and temporary, it may impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness or concentration, such as driving or operating machinery. Catnip can be smoked, but this method may lead to respiratory irritation or other adverse effects.
Headache or Migraine: In rare cases, catnip may trigger headaches or migraines in sensitive individuals. If you experience a headache after exposure to catnip, discontinue use and avoid further contact with the plant. Smoking catnip is not recommended as it does not produce significant psychoactive effects and may pose health risks.
Drug Interactions: Catnip may interact with certain medications or herbal supplements, particularly those with sedative effects. If you are taking medications or other supplements, it’s essential to speak with a healthcare professional before using catnip to avoid potential interactions or adverse effects.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of catnip during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well studied. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid using catnip to prevent any potential risks to themselves or their babies.
It’s important to note that while the risks of getting high off catnip for humans are generally low, individual sensitivity and reactions may vary. If you have any concerns about using catnip or experience any adverse effects, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance. Additionally, using catnip responsibly and in moderation can help minimize any potential risks. It is also important to offer catnip to your feline friend occasionally to avoid reducing their sensitivity to it.
Can people get high on catnip? Organic catnip may cause a mild relaxation, but it’s not typically used for substance abuse or to get high.
Conclusion
Smoking catnip, a member of the mint family, has been explored for its potential health benefits, including its antibacterial and antifungal properties, which could help relieve numerous ailments and prevent oral infections. Traditional medicine has used catnip to treat headaches, aid digestion, and provide a calming effect, but there is limited scientific evidence to support these uses in humans. While catnip tea and catnip oil are commonly used, smoking catnip is less conventional and may carry health risks due to the inhalation of particulates, chemicals, and toxins. Catnip essential oil can also be used to help relax and relieve tension headaches. Dried catnip can be brewed into tea, used in meals, incorporated in aromatherapy, or added to herbal baths for relaxation and stress relief. Despite anecdotal reports of its sedative and psychoactive effects, more clinical data is needed to fully understand the implications of smoking catnip and its impact on health. Consulting with a healthcare provider before using catnip, especially in unconventional forms like smoking, is recommended to avoid potential side effects and ensure safe use.
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Author & Editor: Adam Tomlinson
Clinically Reviewed by: Charee Marquez, LMFT
Clinical Contributor: Karynne Witkin, M.A. I/O Psychology
FAQs
Can catnip help humans with anxiety?
While some individuals may experience mild relaxation from catnip, it is not a recommended treatment for anxiety. If you’re dealing with anxiety, seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Is catnip habit-forming for cats?
No, catnip is not addictive for cats. It simply elicits a temporary response due to its interaction with their olfactory system.
Can I give my cat catnip every day?
It’s best to offer catnip to your feline friend occasionally, as too much exposure might reduce their sensitivity to it.
Is catnip safe for kittens?
It’s generally safe to introduce kittens to catnip, but they might not exhibit a response until they are a few months old.
Can catnip be used as a remedy for drug addiction in humans?
No, catnip is not a suitable treatment for drug addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, professional help is crucial for recovery.