Latin Name: Nepeta cataria
Plant Family: Lamiaceae
Extraction: Distillation of the flowering tops
Catnip essential oil is distilled from the flower tops, Catnip essential oil is a pale yellow liquid with a herbaceous woody scent with slight lemony undertones.
A short, medium-sized perennial with heart-shaped, gently toothed leaves, which are covered in a soft greyish down. From June the nettle-shaped florets appear in mauve whorls around the leafy stems. The whole plant has a scent that is attractive to cats. native to Europe and parts of Asia (Himalayas), naturalized throughout North America and South Africa but cultivated for oil in the Mediterranean region.
Catnip, Natural, Pure Essential Oil - Available in 3ml,10ml, 25ml, 50ml & 100ml.
There are numerous similar species found around the world, it has a long history as a herbal remedy for nervous and digestive complaints. In aromatherapy, catnip essential oil is helpful for irritability and anger but has been mainly used for nervous and digestive complaints, menstrual conditions, chills and cramps. Mentioned in the British Pharmacopoeia for colic in children.
Catnip essential oil is a middle note and blends well with Lemon, Lavender, Geranium, Clary and Niaouli, and although there are no recorded contra-indications, it is not recommended to overuse it during pregnancy.
No known contra-indications, but do not overuse the oil during pregnancy.
Alcohols >49%, aldehydes > 10%.
Essential oils are very powerful and should be used with caution. Here are a few tips that you may find useful, although we advise that you consult a fully qualified, registered aromatherapist who will be able to advise you on the safe methods of use. Why not give us a ring at 01455 251020 or email info@penny-price.com if you are unsure we will be happy to help.
Inhalation
Undiluted essential oils may be inhaled from a tissue or a pillow (4-6 drops). Alternatively, they can be inhaled from a bowl of hot water (3 or 4 drops) or a diffuser (see table below), but avoid this if asthmatic. Never inhale essential oils directly from the bottle.
Shampoo and Bath Foam
Create unique aromatherapy bath foams or shampoos by mixing up to 30 drops of your own essential oil blend into 100ml of a suitable bath foam base or shampoo base.
Skincare Cream
Essential oils can be added to vegetable-based creams and then developed into facial products or topical creams. Do not add more than 15 drops of essential oil to 50ml of your base cream.
Pregnancy
Essential oils are best avoided during the first months of pregnancy. After the third month, many oils can be used safely and effectively. If in doubt, always consult a qualified aromatherapist. Find out more in our blog, Aromatherapy & Pregnancy
Bath, Massage, Vaporiser
See the table below, which gives the correct amounts to use depending on age, and a brief guide on how to use.
Download a printable version of our blending guidlines for you to keep here
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12+ Years |
Child 2-12 Yrs |
Baby 0-2 Yrs |
How to Use |
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Bath |
4-6 drops in a vegetable carrier oil, lotion or detergent base |
2-3 drops diluted in a small amount of white lotion or detergent base |
1-2 drops diluted in a small amount of white lotion or detergent base |
Allow water to run into the bath, then add your blend and swish to disperse evenly for about 2 minutes |
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Massage |
4-6 drops in 10-15ml of vegetable carrier oil |
2-4 drops in 10ml lotion or vegetable carrier oil |
2 drops in 10ml lotion or vegetable carrier oil |
Massage your blend directly on the skin. Use very gentle strokes when massaging a baby. |
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Vaporiser |
4-6 drops in a small amount of water (ideally distilled) |
The subtle release of aromatic oils into the air induces relaxation or stimulation. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. |
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Diffuser |
3-5 drops per 100ml of water (ideally distilled) |
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Please note a detergent base would be a soap base, bath foam base or a shampoo base for example.
You can see our selection of bases here.
