Description
It’s not just us humans who could use some healing herbs—our beloved Moggies need them too! Catnip is a fantastic plant that many cats can’t resist! About two-thirds of domestic cats are drawn to it because of a magical compound called nepetalactone found in its leaves and stems. This little wonder acts as a natural insect repellent and brings out playful, happy behaviors in our furry friends, like rolling, rubbing, purring, and chatting away. The fun usually lasts around 10 minutes, after which they might take a little break before going back for more. And it’s good to know that this reaction is something they inherit from their genes, so you won’t see it in kittens under six months old or cats from places where catnip doesn’t grow. But catnip isn’t just a party for our furry pals—humans can enjoy it too! The dried leaves make lovely herbal teas that are great for relaxation and may help with all sorts of issues like stomach upsets, headaches, fevers, and menstrual cramps. It can even have gentle diuretic and antiseptic effects, plus it’s been used to soothe skin irritations, insect bites, and even as an eye wash. The key compounds, including nepetalactone, are similar to those found in valerian root, which adds to its calming qualities.
If you’re thinking of growing catnip, you’ll be pleased to know it’s a perennial plant, meaning it can stick around for several years! You can easily grow it from seeds, cuttings, or by dividing mature clumps. Just remember to sow the seeds in spring after the last frost—either directly in the garden or started indoors. In about 90 to 120 days, you’ll see them flourish! When planting catnip, choose a spot where they can thrive without being disturbed by regular digging. They love to bask in the sun, so pick a spot that gets at least six hours of sunshine each day. Catnip plants like well-drained soil packed with organic matter. You can even grow them in containers! Just make sure to use a good potting mix and choose a container that’s at least 10 liters big to allow your plants to grow comfortably. And during the growing season, don’t forget to give your potted plants a little extra fertilizer to help them stay healthy and happy!












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