Can you smoke catnip?
In this brief article, we will answer the question, “Can you smoke catnip?” and provide information on what exactly is catnip, ways to use it, benefits of using them, certain side effects associated with them, precautions to take while using it as well as whether they can be used to train cats.
Can you smoke catnip?
Yes, you can smoke catnip. However, catnips are not very potent. Catnip’s effects can be similar to cannabis in cats. Smoking catnip can make you feel happy and it can also make some people a bit high. However, many people do not use catnip.
This is because cannabis seemed to be more potent than catnip. Besides, catnip burns too fast and it needs to be mixed with tobacco to extend its burning time.
Smoking catnip is also particularly harmful. Smoke can contain chemicals and toxins which can increase the risk of developing heart disease and cancer.
Apart from this, people who have tried catnip did not feel that high after smoking them. Some even reported suffering from a headache after using them.
What exactly is catnip?
Catnip also called catmint or catwort is a herb that is usually associated with cats. It is found in Europe and Asia. It has a combination of minty and lemony fragrances.
Catnip contains nepetalactone. This compound present in catnip makes it volatile and it is found in stems, seeds, and leaves of the plant.
Some cats tend to lick the plants to obtain a short-term euphoria that might last for no more than 10 minutes. It can also make your cat calm.
What are some other ways to use catnip?
Catnip tea can be quite beneficial. Catnip tea can be prepared from dried flowers and leaves. Apart from this, there are commercial tea brands that sell catnip-infused tea blends.
Catnip extract can be added to drinks if you wish to experience them as well. Catnip essential oils can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. The catnip oil can be diluted with a carrier oil before being applied to your head.
What are the benefits of catnip in humans?
Some benefits of catnip in humans are given below:
- Catnip promotes calmness and reduces anxiety. It is not known how effective catnips can act as a sedative.
Catnip contains nepetalactone which induces properties similar to valerian which is a sedative. Catnip can aid in reducing insomnia and restlessness as well.
- Catnip poultices can help reduce the pain associated with toothaches. Catnip tea has been shown to reduce toothache too.
Catnip extracts also have antifungal and antibacterial properties. It reduces the growth of certain kinds of bacteria. Catnip also reduces oral cavities and infections.
What are some side effects associated with using catnips?
Smoking catnips are known to cause headaches, abdominal pain, uterine contractions, skin irritation, drowsiness, and eye irritation in some people.
What are some precautions to take while using catnip?
Make sure to not use catnip while you are pregnant or lactating. Do not allow children or infants to use them. Individuals who suffer from mint allergy or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) should not use catnip.
Make sure to dilute catnip before you apply them to your skin. If you experience some side effects while using them, stop using them. Do not use them while you are driving or indulging in dangerous activities that require concentration.
Can catnip be used to train cats?
Yes, catnip can be effective in training cats. If your cat is too restless and ends up messing your room or house, you can add a bit of catnip on their bed.
If your cat claw furniture or is prone to attacking you, you can create catnip toys. Sprinkle a bit of catnip in a sock or under a paper bag. Make sure to crush them into a ball. This can be used to train them.
Catnip sprays might not be that effective in training cats. The flowers and leaves (in dried form) have a more potent effect.
Catnip plants can also be grown close to your window. It is safe for your cats to eat. Catnips can also be planted in your garden but they tend to be more intensive. Catnip’s potency can get lost quickly. So if you have bought them from the market, store them inside the freezer.
Why is catnip more effective on cats than humans?
Cats contain receptors for catnip. These receptors can make them sensitive to the effects of catnips. Humans might lack receptors for nepetalactone.
Conclusion
In this brief article, we have answered the question, “Can you smoke catnip?” and provided information on what exactly is catnip, ways to use it, benefits of using them, certain side effects associated with them, precautions to take while using it as well as whether they can be used to train cats.
