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Description
Catnip Essential Oil is steam-distilled from the leaves and flowers of Nepeta cataria, a perennial herb known for its distinct herbal aroma. While renowned for its euphoric effects on cats, it also offers calming benefits for humans in aromatherapy. Used in diffusers, it promotes relaxation, while its herbal complexity enhances essential oil blends. Pairing well with lavender and patchouli, catnip oil contributes to stress-relief mixtures. Its multifaceted nature makes it an intriguing addition to botanical wellness routines.
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Plant Part
Leaves and Flowers

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Color
Pale Yellow
Aroma Family
Floral, Herbaceous

Catnip Essential Oil
Botanical Name
Nepeta cataria L.
Common Names
Catwort, Catmint, Nepeta
Oil Applications
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Directions For Use
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To diffuse, add 3 drops of catnip essential oil to a diffuser. For internal use, ensure the oil is certified safe for ingestion by the brand and follow specific guidelines. For topical application, dilute 2 drops with 10 ml of carrier oil before applying to the skin.
Main Constituents
Nepetalactone Isomers, Nepetalic Acid, Dihydronepetalactone, B-Caryophyllene, Caryophyllene Oxide
Properties
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What to Look For
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Extraction Method
Steam Distilled
Note Classification
Catnip essential oil may cause skin sensitivity, so always dilute and patch test before topical use. Keep it out of reach of children, consult a physician if pregnant, nursing, or under medical care, and avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, mucosa, and sensitive areas. Do not use internally unless supervised by a qualified clinician.
Middle
Aromatic Profile
Members unlock the full aromatic profile of each essential oil, including scent character, strength, and key notes. Helps you understand how an oil smells in practice and how it may fit different blends or routines
To diffuse, add 3 drops of catnip essential oil to a diffuser. For internal use, ensure the oil is certified safe for ingestion by the brand and follow specific guidelines. For topical application, dilute 2 drops with 10 ml of carrier oil before applying to the skin.
Safety Considerations
Catnip essential oil may cause skin sensitivity, so always dilute and patch test before topical use. Keep it out of reach of children, consult a physician if pregnant, nursing, or under medical care, and avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, mucosa, and sensitive areas. Do not use internally unless supervised by a qualified clinician.
Catnip essential oil may cause skin sensitivity, so always dilute and patch test before topical use. Keep it out of reach of children, consult a physician if pregnant, nursing, or under medical care, and avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, mucosa, and sensitive areas. Do not use internally unless supervised by a qualified clinician.
References
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[1] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[2] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[3] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[4] Author(s). Book title. Publisher; Year. Publisher page: available to members.
[5] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[6] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[7] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[8] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[9] Author(s). Book title. Publisher; Year. Publisher page: available to members.
[10] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[11] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[12] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[13] Author(s). Book title. Publisher; Year. Publisher page: available to members.
[14] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[15] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[16] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[17] Author(s). Book title. Publisher; Year. Publisher page: available to members.
[18] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[19] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[20] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
[21] Author(s). Book title. Publisher; Year. Publisher page: available to members.
[22] Author(s). Article title. Journal Year;Volume(Issue):Pages/eLocator. PMID/publisher link: available to members.
Disclaimer
Information on this page is for general education only and is not medical advice. Essential oils are highly concentrated and may cause irritation, burns, or allergic reactions; always dilute for skin use, patch test first, avoid eyes and mucous membranes, and keep away from children and pets. Do not ingest essential oils unless specifically directed by a qualified clinician and the product provides clear oral dosing and safety instructions; consult a professional before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a medical condition.