Catnip vs Mint: What’s the Difference?

Catnip and mint are herbs from the Lamiaceae (mint) family. Both herbs have strong aromatic scents that are attractive to humans, bees, and other insects, but catnip has a scent that is specifically appealing to cats and repulsive to deer. We’ve all asked this question, why do cats like catnip? What’s the science behind this phenomenon? We must first understand what makes catnip different from other herbs. 

Mint is one of the most popular scents on our planet. It is a favorite flavor for toothpaste, ice cream, tea, essential oils, and cleaning products. At first glance, these two might look alike, but several distinct features can help you tell them apart. Let us dive into specific details and tackle the difference between catnip and mint.

Comparing Catnip vs. Mint

The Key Differences Between Catnip vs. Mint

Aside from the difference in classification, catnip and mint also have different effects on humans and animals. Let’s discuss three key dissimilarities between the two.

Catnip vs. Mint: Classification

Catnip, scientifically called Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb from the catmint genus (Nepeta) in the Lamiaceae family. Among the hundreds of multiregional Nepeta species are Greek catmint (Nepeta parnassica), Camphor catmint (Nepeta camphorata), Lemon catmint (Nepeta citriodora), Raceme catnip (Nepeta racemosa), and many more.

The term “mint” applies to all the species that belong to the Mentha genus in the Lamiaceae family. Mint is well known for its medicinal value and aromatic properties. There are over 20 species of Mentha worldwide. Nowadays, it can be commercially produced or cultivated in home gardens. There are many types of mint. Here are some of its recognized species:

Catnip vs. Mint: Effect on Cats and Insects

According to studies, catnip has hallucinogenic properties that affect 50 to 75 percent of cats. Catnip produces an essential oil called nepetalactone that affects the nervous system. Catnip exerts its influence when it passes through the olfactory bulb, which is responsible for the sense of smell.

Affected cats may show different ranges of euphoric behaviors such as sniffing, licking, chewing the plant, shaking the head, chin and cheek rubbing, rolling, and body rubbing. Aside from cats, bees are also attracted to catnip flowers.

While it’s a cat’s favorite, catnip works as a repellent against mosquitoes and other flies.

Mint’s scent, called menthol, is a natural insect repellent. This scent will deter insect pests such as mosquitoes, ants, cockroaches, flies, and even rodents such as rats. 

Catnip vs. Mint: Human Uses

Catnip has sedative effects on humans and can induce sleep. It’s consumed as tea and can greatly help if you have insomnia. On top of that, it is also essential in traditional medicine because it relieves stomach pains.

Essential catnip oil is rich in carvacrol and thymol, which have antiseptic characteristics for treating cough and cold. It is great for treating irritated skin and can remove sebum that causes unwanted acne. Catnip leaves can be used for herbal teas, soups, stews, pasta, and sauces. Catnip flowers are used to make detergents and deodorants. 

Mint is primarily used in essential oils. It is one of the oldest medicinal herbs, and its importance can be traced back to Ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian cultures. Today, its value is backed up by science. Studies have shown that mint essential oils have antifungal and antimicrobial properties.

This herb is one of the most famous worldwide, especially for culinary purposes. It can be used in herbal teas, beverages, sauces, jellies, and vinegar. Fresh leaves are also added to salads, meat dishes, and pasta. 

Peppermint is well known for its fresh, sharp smell. It is one of the strongest and spiciest species of mint. Peppermint oil treats headaches and colds. It is widely used in various industries, such as food, pharmaceuticals, perfumery, and flavoring.

Menthol, mint oil’s main constituent, is also used to manufacture lozenges, toothpaste, pain balms, and cold balms. It is also used in cough drops and as a main ointment ingredient. On top of this, menthol is a natural pesticide, and insects will stay away from this scent as much as possible.

Up Next:

• Can Dogs Eat Mint? What Are The Risks
• Catnip vs. Catmint: What’s the Difference?

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