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Catnip Aerial Parts Extract

Also known as: Catnip, Catmint, Catnip aerial parts extract, Nepeta cataria

Overview

Catnip aerial parts extract is derived from the leaves, stems, and flowers of *Nepeta cataria*, a plant belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). The extract's primary bioactive constituent is nepetalactone, an iridoid compound, which can comprise up to 97% of the essential oil. Traditionally, catnip has been recognized for its insect repellent properties, mild sedative effects, and its unique behavioral influence on cats. While there is a moderate amount of research on its phytochemical composition and some in vivo studies, high-quality clinical trials in humans are limited. There are currently no comprehensive systematic reviews or meta-analyses specifically on catnip aerial parts extract in humans that meet strict randomized controlled trial criteria. Despite this, its efficacy as an insect repellent is well-supported by research.

Benefits

The most well-established benefit of catnip aerial parts extract is its potent **insect repellent activity**. Studies have shown that catnip essential oil, particularly its high nepetalactone content, is highly effective against mosquitoes like *Aedes aegypti*, with efficacy comparable to or even surpassing some synthetic repellents. This effect is supported by controlled laboratory studies. Additionally, **antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects** have been observed in animal models. Rat studies indicate that catnip extracts can exhibit antioxidant properties and protect liver function against toxic damage induced by agents like CCl4, likely by modulating antioxidant enzymes and reducing oxidative stress. While catnip is known to induce behavioral changes in cats (euphoria or sedation), this is not a human benefit. Other purported benefits in humans, such as mild sedative or anxiolytic effects, are largely anecdotal and lack robust clinical evidence.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action for catnip's insect repellent properties lies with nepetalactone, which acts by interfering with the olfactory receptors of insects, thereby deterring biting behavior. Its antioxidant effects are believed to be mediated through the modulation of liver antioxidant enzymes and the reduction of oxidative stress markers, as observed in animal models. The exact molecular targets and pathways responsible for any potential sedative or anxiolytic effects in humans are not well characterized due to a lack of comprehensive research in this area. The interaction with body systems for these purported effects remains largely speculative.

Side effects

Catnip extracts are generally considered safe with low toxicity, based on animal studies where doses up to 200 mg/kg body weight showed no significant adverse effects. However, due to the limited number of human clinical trials, common side effects in humans are not well documented. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been widely reported in the existing literature. Despite its general safety profile in animals, caution is strongly advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the complete lack of specific safety data for these populations. As with any herbal supplement, individual sensitivities may vary, and it is prudent to start with low doses if used. There are no known severe or life-threatening side effects reported, but the absence of evidence in humans means that potential rare or idiosyncratic reactions cannot be entirely ruled out.

Dosage

Due to the limited number of human clinical trials, there are no established or standardized human dosing guidelines for catnip aerial parts extract. Animal studies investigating hepatoprotective effects have utilized oral doses ranging from approximately 50-200 mg/kg body weight. It is important to note that the concentration of active compounds, particularly nepetalactone, can vary significantly depending on the plant's genotype, cultivation conditions, and harvest time. This variability makes it challenging to standardize dosages based on raw plant material. For insect repellent purposes, the essential oil is typically applied topically. Without robust human data, any internal use should be approached with caution, and professional medical advice should be sought. There are no defined upper limits or safety thresholds for human consumption.

FAQs

Is catnip extract effective as a mosquito repellent?

Yes, studies confirm strong repellent activity of nepetalactone-rich catnip oil against mosquitoes, particularly *Aedes aegypti*. Its efficacy is comparable to or better than some synthetic repellents.

Can catnip extract be used for anxiety or sleep in humans?

While traditionally used for mild sedative effects, there is no high-quality clinical evidence from human trials to support the use of catnip extract for anxiety or sleep in humans.

Is catnip extract safe for human consumption?

Animal data suggest low toxicity for catnip extracts. Human safety data are limited, but no major adverse effects have been widely reported. Caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to lack of specific data.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10821859/ – This study demonstrated that catnip oil, rich in nepetalactone, effectively repelled *Aedes aegypti* mosquitoes in controlled assays. The findings suggest its strong potential as a natural insect repellent, comparable to or exceeding some synthetic alternatives.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2023.1121582/full – This research explored how different catnip genotypes and harvest times influence the concentration of essential oil and nepetalactone. It highlights the variability in active compound content, which is crucial for standardizing extract potency.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9415533/ – This animal study in rats showed that catnip extracts exhibited hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects against liver damage induced by carbon tetrachloride. The results suggest potential therapeutic benefits for liver health, though further human research is needed.
https://www.greenpharmacy.info/index.php/ijgp/article/download/3341/1251 – This review article summarizes the phytochemistry and traditional uses of *Nepeta cataria*, emphasizing nepetalactone as the main bioactive compound. It provides a general overview but does not include a systematic analysis of clinical evidence.