Sedative catnip

There are several remaining herbs that are reputed to have sedative effects skullcap, geranium, hops, and catnip. However, the neuropharmacological mechanisms have not been well characterized, and behavioral data in animals and humans are lacking. The existing knowledge on these plants is presented here. 

The active agent for this effect is uncertain, but catnip has in it several terpenes, including nepetalactone. One terpene, c/s-trans-nepetalactone was hypothesized to be responsib e for the sedative effect based on its structural similarity to valepotriates, the depressant principles from valerian. 

Paradoxically, catnip fed to mice had stimulant effects, with increased rearing, locomotion, and stereotypical behavior, increased susceptibility to chemically induced (picrotoxin and strychnine) seizures, and decreased sleeping time after barbiturate administration (Massoco et al. 1995). The LD50 for nepetalactone in mice was reported to be quite high at 1300 mg/kg (Harney et al. 1978). In chicks, an a cohol extract of catnip had biphasic effects, where low to moderate doses (25-1800 mg/kg) produced sedative effects, while higher doses (>2 g/kg) had less sedative and perhaps stimulant effects (Sherry and Hunter 1979). Humans have reported sedative effects of catnip, and one accidental ingestion by a young child reportedly produced sedative effects (Osterhoudt et al. 1997). 

There was some association of hallucinogenic effects with catnip in humans, particularly through administration by smoking. This was reported in a 1969 paper, but apparently resulted from confusion with cannabis (Tyler 1994). Any reports of hallucinogenic or sedative effects of catnip in humans, at this point, are purely anecdotal. 

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Uses Rx of superficial wounds (bacterial, viral, fungal, insect bites, minor burns, cold sores, acne Action Broad-spectrum antibiotic activity against E. coli, S. aureus, C. albicans Available forms Topical creams, lotions, oint, oil apply topically PRN Notes/SE Ataxia, contact dermatitis, D, drowsiness, GI mucosal irritation Interactions Effects OF drugs that affect histamine release EMS effects of Benadryl Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) Uses Anxiolytic, antispasmodic, dys-menorrheal, restlessness, sedative Action Inhibits uptake stimulates release of GABA, which T GABA concentration extracellularly causes sedation Available forms Ext 400-900 mg PO 30 min < hs, tea 2-3 g (1 tsp of crude herb) qid, PRN, tine 3-5 mL (1/2-1 tsp) (1 5 ratio) PO qid, PRN Efficacy Probably effective sedative (reduces sleep latency) Notes/SE GI upset, HA, insomnia, N/V, palpitations, restlessness, vision changes Interactions T Effects OF barbiturates, benzodiazepines, opiates, EtOH, catnip, hops, kavakava, passion flower, skullcap effects OF MAOIs, phenytoin, warfarin EMS T Effects of benzodiazepines and opiates abruptly D/C may cause withdrawal symptoms... 

Catnip contains nepetalactone, a volatile oil similar to that found in valerian root. It acts as a mild sedative to relieve migraines, menstrual cramps, tension, and anxiety. Many consider catnip effective in treating flatulence and indigestion others regard it as a diuretic. Ozarks use catnip to treat aching teeth. A weak catnip tea is a traditional remedy to help soothe colicky babies. 

The bitter iridoid monoterpenes usually occur as glycosides (see Chapter 4). Non-glycosidic iridoids include the sedative valepotriates found in valerian—Valeriana spp. (Valerianaceae). They are closely related to nepetalactone, the volatile component of essential oil of catnip, Nepeta cataria (Lamiaceae), responsible for attracting cats to the plant. 

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