Catnip and the Alteration of Consciousness

The irritant receptor TRPA1 mediates the mosquito repellent effect of catnip

“…5 Although many, or most, of these claimed curative properties remain to be verified (or refuted), catnip does seem to have a positive influence on human well-being, producing a soothing and calming sensation. 11 To invertebrates, however, catnip is likely to appear less benign, as many insect taxa react with avoidance when confronted with its extracts ( Figure 1B ; Table S1 ). This well-known property of catnip explains the long history of its use as an insect repellent.…”