| Latin Name: | Nepeta cataria |
| English Name: | Catnip |
| French Name: | Cataire |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Origin: | France, Canada |
History and Origin
Also called catswort or catmint, Nepeta cataria is originating from Europe and Asia. The plant is now naturalized in many regions of the world, including North America. Catnip is an herbaceous plant with toothed leaves and white or lilac flowers. The names of the plant are all related to cats because its scent produces an euphoric effect on them. The presence of an active substance named "nepetelactone" makes it an effective insect repellent.