When you think of catnip, the image of a cat rolling around in ecstasy probably comes to mind.
This common herb that sends our feline friends into bliss has led many to wonder if it would do the same for humans.
Can you smoke catnip? Does it get you high, or is it just a feline fantasy?
Read on to find out if you can join the fun and get high with your cat!
WHAT IS CATNIP, AND WHY DO PEOPLE USE IT?
Before we get to whether humans can get high off cat nip, let's first answer one simple question: What is Catnip?
Catnip, also known as catswort or catmint, is a member of the mint family. It is scientifically known as Nepeta cataria and is native to Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. However, it can now be found pretty much everywhere, including the US, UK, and New Zealand.
The magic ingredient in catnip is a compound called nepetalactone. When cats whiff it, this compound hits certain receptors in their brain, which is why you’ll see them rolling around, jumping, becoming vocal, flipping, and sometimes getting super energetic.
Because of these euphoric effects on cats, many people are curious as to whether they can also smoke catnip and get high.
Now, before catnip was known as the go-to treat for our feline friends, people throughout medieval Europe and early American colonies used it as medicine. They made it into herbal tea and tinctures, and yes, they even smoked it. They used it for:
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Helping babies with colic
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Stomach problems
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Childbirth pain
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Menstrual cramps
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Headaches
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General pain relief
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Increase libido
Not terribly surprising. Seems like people used to drink, eat, or smoke anything to treat various ailments and for health benefits. This was a common practice before modern medicine came along, and some people still use it today.
TYPES OF CATNIP
Now that we know what catnip is, let’s talk about the different types. There are over 250 variants of catnip, each with its own characteristics and appeal. Here are the most popular:
COMMON CATNIP (Nepeta Cataria)
This is what you'll typically find in pet stores and is the variety most cats go crazy for. It's easily recognizable by its heart-shaped leaves and white or lavender flowers. It has a high concentration of nepetalactone, which makes it great for cats.
LEMON CATNIP (Nepeta cataria var. Citriodora)
This variety is similar to common catnip but with a delightful lemony scent. Lemon catnip's citrus aroma makes it a popular choice for teas and potpourri, adding a zesty twist to the calming experience, though it tends to have a milder effect on cats.
GIANT CATNIP (Nepeta Grandiflora)
Giant catnip, as the name suggests, is a bigger version of regular catnip. With its big growth and showy flowers, it’s often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and sometimes in catnip tea.
GREEK CATNIP (Nepeta Parnassica)
Native to Southern Europe, this variety is known for its stronger sedative properties compared to other varieties. It contains additional compounds that some claim help with sleep and relaxation.
JAPANESE CATNIP (Nepeta Subsessilis)
This variety has a different chemical profile from common catnip and is mostly grown for its ornamental value. Cats don't typically respond as strongly to this variety, but it makes a beautiful addition to gardens.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU SMOKE CATNIP?
Before you reach for your rolling papers, let's take a closer look at what happens when you smoke catnip.
Smoking catnip won't transport you to another dimension like smoking cannabis. But it does have some noticeable effects on the body.
As there is very little scientific research on the effects of smoking catnip in humans, most of what we know comes from anecdotal reports. Of those who have tried smoking catnip, some felt nothing at all, while others typically report feeling:
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Mild Relaxation: A gentle sedative that promotes calmness without the intense euphoria of cannabis.
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Energy Levels: Some say they felt more energized and talkative.
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Physical Sensations: A gentle warming sensation that spreads throughout the body without causing significant impairment.
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Mental State: A clear-headed and calm rather than experiencing any kind of significant high or altered mental state.
If you're expecting a wild ride, you might be disappointed. Instead, think of it as unwinding with a cup of chamomile tea rather than embarking on an interstellar adventure.
DOES SMOKING CATNIP GET YOU HIGH?
The short answer? No, smoking catnip won't get you high like cannabis does. The compound nepetalactone that triggers a cat's playful behavior doesn't have the same impact on humans.
Also, there is very little scientific evidence showing that catnip has any significant psychoactive effects on humans. While it might help you relax, don't expect to experience anything close to your cat's euphoric reaction.
IS SMOKING CATNIP SAFE?
Smoking dry catnip leaves in small doses is generally safe and non-addictive. If overdosed, it could lead to negative side effects like headaches or nausea.
That said, smoking herbs, including catnip smoke, can be pretty harsh on your throat and lungs. Plus, you're still inhaling burning plant matter, which means dealing with tar, resin, and other potentially cancer-causing chemicals.
Want to make it safer? Use a proper filter like MooseLabs' MouthPeace to catch harmful particles. Also, make sure you're using organic catnip free of pesticides—you don't want to be smoking those chemicals.
And let's be clear: skip the catnip completely if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have any respiratory issues, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional first.
SHOULD YOU SMOKE CATNIP?
Is it worth giving catnip a try? That depends on what you're after. For those seeking a mild sense of relaxation without psychoactive effects, it might be worth exploring. However, if you're expecting a mind-bending experience, catnip will likely fall short. It’s best to leave it for Mr. Whiskers.
Consider the pros and cons.
Pros:
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Non-addictive
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Legal and easily available
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Mild relaxation effects
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No significant side effects
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Won't show up on drug tests
Cons:
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Very mild effects
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Contains tar and resin-like any smoke
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Effects don't last long
Some might find the experience underwhelming or not worth the effort. Ultimately, it's about personal preference.
OTHER WAYS TO ENJOY CATNIP BESIDES SMOKING
Smoking isn’t the only way to enjoy the benefits of catnip. If you’re open to other options, here are a few to try:
CATNIP TEA
Brewing catnip leaves into a tea is a popular way to unwind. Just steep dried catnip leaves in hot water for a soothing herbal tea.
AROMATHERAPY
Catnip’s aromatic properties make it great for aromatherapy. Diffuse catnip essential oil or add dried catnip to potpourri for a calming vibe.
The gentle scent will relax you and your space.
Traditionally, people hung dried catnip bundles around their homes and gardens to repel mosquitoes and other insects, so you get a natural pest deterrent with your relaxation session.
BLENDS
Catnip can be blended with other herbs to make smoking blends or teas. Blending catnip with chamomile, lavender, or lemon balm will boost its relaxation properties.
SMOKING CATNIP FINAL THOUGHTS
As we have seen, smoking catnip will not get you high, but it may provide a gentle sense of relaxation. If you're curious, give it a whirl!
Suppose you decide to experiment, start with small doses, use organic catnip from reputable sources, and use a filterfor the harsh smoke. If you're interested in learning more about other herbal alternatives, you are welcome to read our guide on the effects of smoking lavender and other smokable herbs.
FAQ Section:
Can humans get high on catnip?
No, humans can’t get high on catnip. While nepetalactone hits cats’ receptors big time, it doesn’t do the same for humans. Any “high” people report is probably just mild relaxation or a placebo effect.
How does catnip affect humans compared to cats?
Unlike our feline friends who go wild, humans might feel a little relaxed at most. The big difference is in our brain chemistry - we don’t have the same receptors that make cats go crazy for catnip.
Can smoking catnip hurt you?
Catnip is generally safe when used in moderation. Use MooseLabs' MouthPeace to help minimize the harshness of the smoke and filter out harmful particles.
Is catnip inhaled or eaten?
Catnip can be inhaled through smoking or used in teas for ingestion. Both methods offer a calming effect, but smoking provides a faster onset.
Can I put catnip in my blunt?
Yes, you can mix catnip with other herbs in a blunt. It might add a mild flavor and enhance relaxation.
What are the best herbs to mix with catnip?
Some popular smokable herbs to mix with catnip include chamomile, lavender, and peppermint, all of which complement catnip's calming properties and create a soothing herbal blend.
How long do the effects of smoking catnip last?
The effects of smoking cat nip are short-lived. Any mild sedative effects typically last 30-60 minutes when drinking tea and even shorter when smoking. Unlike the intense but brief reaction cats catnip get, human effects are much more subtle.