Catnip Oil
Part of our Oils range, manufactured and exported by Arizone International LLP.
Catnip Oil is a herbaceous, minty and slightly earthy essential oil steam distilled from the leaves and flowering tops of Nepeta cataria, a member of the mint family. It is best known for its effect on cats and for its use in natural insect-repellent products.
Arizone International supplies Catnip Oil for pet product manufacturers, natural insect-repellent brands and speciality aromatherapy and fragrance companies.
About Catnip
Catnip is a hardy perennial herb native to Europe and western Asia, including the Himalayan region, and it now grows wild in many parts of the world. It has soft, grey-green, heart-shaped leaves and small white or lilac flowers. It was used in European folk tradition as a calming tea long before its effect on cats became famous.
Why Cats Love It
The main active compound in catnip is nepetalactone. When a cat smells it, nepetalactone binds to receptors in the nose and triggers a response that usually lasts 5 to 15 minutes: rolling, rubbing, purring and playful behaviour. Around two-thirds of adult cats respond; the sensitivity is inherited, and kittens usually do not respond until they are a few months old. Lions and other big cats can also react.
Aroma and Composition
- NepetalactoneThe main component, often 70% or more in good-quality oil, in two forms (Z,E and E,Z).
- Beta-Caryophyllene and Other TerpenesContribute to the herbaceous scent.
Insect Repellent Research
Research, including studies at Iowa State University, found that nepetalactone is an effective repellent against mosquitoes in laboratory tests, in some cases comparable to DEET. Later research suggested that nepetalactone activates an irritant receptor in insects. Commercial repellents based on catnip must still be registered with the relevant authorities in each market before they can make repellent claims.
Applications
- Cat toys, scratching posts and pet sprays
- Natural insect-repellent products, subject to registration
- Garden and outdoor products
- Herbal and green fragrance accords
- Research and speciality uses
Safety and Dilution
Catnip oil should be diluted before skin contact and may irritate sensitive skin. It is not recommended during pregnancy. It should be used in pet products only at levels suitable for animals, and pets should not be allowed to swallow the concentrated oil. Keep away from eyes and out of reach of children. Not for internal use.
Quality Parameters
- Botanical identity (Nepeta cataria)
- Nepetalactone content by gas chromatography
- Specific gravity and refractive index
- Aroma evaluation
- Screening for adulteration
Packaging and Storage
Supplied in aluminium bottles or HDPE containers. Store tightly closed in a cool, dark place. Keep away from cats during storage.
Tips for Buyers and Formulators
Pet product makers usually dilute catnip oil in a carrier or alcohol spray and test the effect on a few cats first, since not all cats respond. For repellent research, request a GC report showing nepetalactone content.
Why Choose Arizone International?
We are an India-based supplier and exporter of essential oils, located in Daman near Gujarat. We help buyers source speciality oils like Catnip Oil with COA, GC reports and export documentation.
Share your quantity and destination to receive a quotation for Catnip Oil.
Specifications
- Category
- Oils
- Physical Form
- Liquid – steam-distilled essential oil
- Grade Options
- Cosmetic / Fragrance / Aromatherapy grade
- Packaging
- Aluminium bottles (1–5 kg), HDPE cans (5–25 kg) and lacquered steel drums (up to 180 kg); samples in amber glass
- Country of Origin
- USA / Europe
- Shelf Life
- 24 months in original sealed packing
- Storage Conditions
- Tightly closed, full containers in a cool (below 25°C), dark place away from heat and flames
Applications
- Cat toys, scratching posts and pet sprays
- Natural insect-repellent products, subject to registration
- Garden and outdoor products
- Herbal and green fragrance accords
- Research and speciality uses
Compliance
Catnip Oil is rich in nepetalactone, which binds to receptors in a cat's nose and triggers rolling, rubbing and playful behaviour for a few minutes.
No. Roughly two-thirds of adult cats respond. The trait is inherited, and young kittens usually do not react.
Research on nepetalactone is promising, but products that claim to repel insects must be registered with the authorities in each market.
Yes. Each batch of Catnip Oil can be supplied with a GC-MS report along with the COA, so you can check its main components.
Yes. We can send a sample of Catnip Oil for testing so you can approve the aroma and quality before placing a bulk order.
We export Catnip Oil from India to buyers in the USA, the UK, the EU, the Middle East, Australia and 40+ other countries. Orders ship by sea or air on EXW, FOB, CIF or DAP terms, with a certificate of analysis and a certificate of origin.
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