Can You Smoke Catnip? Effects and Risks for Humans

Catnip is generally thought to be only for cats, but nowadays, many people drink catnip-infused tea as a herbal remedy to soothe anxiety and tend to their insomnia. It can also help relieve colic, common cold symptoms, and repel mosquitoes. But what about smoking it?

While some people may choose to smoke catnip, it’s not very common. Those who do often report feelings of mild relaxation and sedation, but since it’s not psychoactive like cannabis, it doesn’t produce a high of any sort. The effects are generally mild and can include a sense of calm or slight drowsiness, however smoking catnip also carries some side effects and risks, including respiratory irritation, headaches, and gastrointestinal discomfort if smoked in large quantities.

If you’ve ever wondered whether catnip can be smoked, we’ll guide you through its effects and potential risks, as well as how some people use catnip today as a herbal remedy.

Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb from the mint family. It’s well-known for its effects on cats, but it has also been used in traditional medicine for humans. The plant features heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges and produces small, white to purple flowers. Catnip contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is responsible for its effects on cats. It’s easy to grow, and can be found in gardens and wild areas across North America and Europe.

Is Catnip a Drug?

Catnip is not considered a drug in the traditional sense. While it does have a noticeable effect on cats, causing them to exhibit playful or relaxed behaviors, it doesn’t have the same impact on humans. For humans, catnip is often used as an herbal remedy, typically in the form of tea, to help with relaxation and mild sedation. It doesn’t produce a high or have psychoactive properties like some drugs. Instead, its effects are mild and generally considered safe when used appropriately.

Catnip can have a dramatic effect on cats, often making them act playful, hyperactive, or relaxed. When exposed to catnip, many cats will roll around, rub their faces in it, purr, meow, and exhibit behaviors similar to those seen during play or hunting. Some cats may become more mellow and calm, while others might get a burst of energy. The effects typically last about 10 to 15 minutes, after which the cat becomes temporarily immune to the effects for about 30 minutes to an hour.

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Catnip contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is found in the leaves and stems of the plant. When a cat sniffs or ingests catnip, nepetalactone binds to receptors in the cat’s nose, stimulating sensory neurons. This triggers a response in the brain that affects the cat’s behavior.

The reaction is thought to mimic feline pheromones, leading to the playful or relaxed behaviors observed. Not all cats are affected by catnip; sensitivity to it is hereditary, and about 50-70% of cats will respond to it.

There are several varieties of catnip, each with unique characteristics:

• True Catnip (Nepeta cataria): The most common type, known for its strong scent and white to purple flowers. It can grow up to 3 feet tall.

• Greek Catnip (Nepeta parnassica): Features pale pink blooms and grows to about 1.5 feet tall.

• Camphor Catnip (Nepeta camphorata): Known for its white flowers with purple dots, it also reaches about 1.5 feet in height.

• Lemon Catnip (Nepeta citriodora): Has a lemony scent and produces white and purple blooms, growing up to 3 feet tall.

• Persian Catmint (Nepeta mussinii): Features lavender flowers and grows to about 15 inches tall.

Each variety has its own appeal, but they all share the common trait of being attractive to cats due to the presence of nepetalactone.

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Some people report feeling relaxed or mildly sedated after smoking catnip, but it doesn’t produce a high. Unlike substances such as cannabis, it has no psychoactive properties. The effects are said to be more mildly relaxing than euphoric.

Catnip contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is what attracts cats, but it doesn’t have the same impact on humans. Instead, you might feel a gentle sense of calm or slight drowsiness. It’s more akin to the feeling you get from drinking a soothing herbal tea rather than any kind of intense or mind-altering experience. So, while it might help you unwind a bit, don’t expect any significant changes in your perception or mood.

Smoking catnip can lead to several side effects, but they’re generally mild. Here’s what you might experience:

• Respiratory Irritation: Smoking any plant material can irritate your lungs, causing coughing or wheezing.

• Headaches: Some people report headaches after smoking catnip.

• Nausea: Ingesting or smoking large amounts can make you feel nauseous.

• General Discomfort: You might feel a general sense of malaise if you overdo it.

Smoking or ingesting catnip can also present some more serious risks, especially if consumed in larger quantities or if you’re uniquely sensitive to the effects of nepetalactone, such as:

• Allergic Reactions: Some people might be allergic to catnip or other plants in the mint family. Symptoms can include itching, rash, hives, swelling, or trouble breathing. If you notice any allergic reactions after using catnip, stop immediately and seek medical help if symptoms get worse or don’t go away.

• Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Consuming large amounts of catnip can cause digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain. It’s important to use catnip in moderation and stop if you experience any of these symptoms.

• Drowsiness or Sedation: Catnip can have a mild sedative effect, making you feel drowsy or relaxed. This might affect your ability to do tasks that need focus, like driving or operating machinery. Smoking catnip can also irritate your respiratory system.

• Drug Interactions: Catnip might interact with certain medications or herbal supplements, especially those with sedative effects. If you’re taking any medications or supplements, talk to a healthcare professional before using catnip to avoid potential interactions.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of catnip during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn’t been well studied. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid using catnip to prevent any potential risks to themselves or their babies.

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Catnip has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and is most commonly consumed as tea. Catnip tea is known for its calming effects, making it a popular choice for those seeking natural ways to reduce anxiety and promote sleep. The herb contains compounds that can help relax muscles and soothe digestive issues, providing relief from cramps, gas, and indigestion. Additionally, catnip has mild sedative properties, which can help alleviate stress and tension. While its effects on humans are not as pronounced as on cats, catnip remains a gentle and effective herbal remedy for various minor ailments.

While catnip is a fascinating herb with notable effects on cats, its impact on humans is much milder. The question “can you smoke catnip” often arises, but it’s important to note that smoking catnip won’t get you high. Instead, it might offer a gentle sense of relaxation similar to drinking herbal tea.

However, smoking catnip can also come with side effects like respiratory irritation and headaches, so it’s best to consume it in tea form, and if you smoke it, be wary of any potential allergic reactions or interactions with medications. Overall, catnip can be a fun and safe treat for your feline friends and a mild herbal remedy for humans when used appropriately.

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