Catnip Essential Oil

Catnip Essential Oil is produced by steam distillation of the flowering aerial parts of Nepeta cataria. It has a strong green-herbaceous aroma with minty, earthy, and slightly pungent notes and is generally considered a middle note in aromatic formulations.

Four Primary Constituents and Typical Ranges

• trans-cis Nepetalactone: approximately 40–70%
• cis-trans Nepetalactone: approximately 10–30%
• β-Caryophyllene: approximately 2–8%
• Caryophyllene oxide: approximately 1–4%

These are representative natural ranges rather than guaranteed batch values. Composition varies with plant variety or chemotype, growing region, harvest, processing, distillation, storage, and the individual production batch.

Common Uses and Aromatic Properties

This essential oil is commonly used in outdoor aromatic blends, insect-deterring preparations, calming diffusion, and herbal natural perfumery. In aromatherapy, it is traditionally valued for calming, insect-deterring, antispasmodic, and soothing properties. These descriptions refer to customary aromatic and cosmetic use and are not claims that the oil diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents disease.

Adult Dilution and Use

Use at 0.5–2% for adult topical products, equal to approximately 1–4 drops in 10 mL of carrier. Drop measurements are approximate because drop size varies by oil and dispenser. Begin with the lowest effective dilution and perform a patch test before broader use.

Use With Children

Because child-specific safety information is limited, avoid use under age 6. For ages 6–12, use no more than approximately 0.5%. Do not use essential oils routinely with children under age 2 unless directed by a pediatric healthcare professional or qualified clinical aromatherapist. Never place essential oils in or near a child's eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or hands.

Safety Precautions

Use sparingly because the aroma is powerful. Avoid during pregnancy and nursing unless professionally directed. Keep away from cats and other pets unless a veterinarian trained in aromatic medicine approves its use. For external and aromatic use only. Do not ingest unless specifically directed by a properly qualified healthcare professional. Avoid the eyes and mucous membranes, keep out of reach of children, and discontinue use if irritation or breathing discomfort occurs.