Soviet Medical Encyclopedia

Nepeta Cataria

Pharmacology

Also known as: Catnip, Catmint

Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.

Summary

Nepeta cataria L. (catnip), specifically the variety citriodora Beck, is a plant belonging to the mint family (Labiatae) containing an essential oil reminiscent of lemon and rose geranium. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat respiratory catarrh, chlorosis, hysteria, delayed menstruation, and scabies.

Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)

NEPETA CATARIA L., var. citriodora Beck, catnip, family Labiatae; grows wild in Western Europe, easily cultivated; contains an essential oil (0.3%) whose scent resembles lemon oil and rose geranium oil. Nepeta cataria is used in folk medicine for respiratory catarrh, chlorosis, hysteria, and delayed menstruation, and against scabies. Its constituents have not been studied.

Cite this page

“Nepeta Cataria.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/nepeta-cataria/