According to a recent survey, nearly 60% of Americans say they have suffered from stress in the past month. And with Covid-19 continuing to wreak havoc across the globe, that number is likely to rise. So, what can we do to combat stress? Some people turn to yoga or meditation, while others rely on comfort food or alcohol. But what about our feline friends? Is there anything they can do to help us relax?
As it turns out, there is—and that something is called catnip. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a member of the mint family that is known for its ability to make cats go crazy. But did you know that it can also have a calming effect on humans? In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind catnip and find out whether or not it can really help us beat stress.
So, What is Catnip Exactly?
CBD catnip spray for cats Catnip is an aromatic herb that contains a compound called nepetalactone. This compound is structurally similar to valepotriates—compounds found in valerian root, which is another herb said to have stress-relieving properties. When cats smell nepetalactone, it binds to their olfactory receptors and causes them to experience a range of emotions, from elation and playfulness to relaxation and sleepiness.
While the effects of nepetalactone on humans are not as well-documented as its effects on cats, some studies suggest that the compound does indeed have stress-relieving properties. One study found that exposure to nepetalactone reduced heart rate and blood pressure in rats subjected to stressful situations. Another study found that nepetalactone was just as effective as valium at reducing stress-induced anxiety in rats. And while there is no definitive proof that nepetalactone has the same effect on humans, there is anecdotal evidence that suggests the compound can help us relax and cope with stress.
How to Use Catnip for Stress Relief
If you’re interested in using catnip for stress relief, there are several ways you can go about it. You can purchase dried catnip leaves online or at your local pet store and brew them into tea. You can also purchase catnip essential oil and add a few drops to your diffuser. And if you have a cat, you can simply let them sniff the dried leaves or rub some essential oil on their fur; they’ll likely start purring away in no time!
Conclusion:
So there you have it—the low down on catnip and its potential stress-relieving benefits. While more research needs to be done in order to definitively prove that catnip has the same effect on humans as it does on cats, there is promising evidence that suggests the herb does indeed have calming properties. If you’re looking for a natural way to combat stress, why not give catnip a try? Who knows—you may just find yourself feeling more relaxed than ever before!
