The Difference Between Catnip and Mint

1. Different leaves

But from the appearance, the two are very similar, but if you look closely, there are some differences. The leaves of catnip are slightly white in color. If you look closely, you will find a layer of fine hairs on them. You can feel the presence of fluff by touching it with your hand. The texture is relatively thick, giving people a more comfortable feeling.

The leaves of mint are brighter in color and can be distinguished if placed together. If you touch them with your hand, the texture is also relatively thin, so you can judge from the appearance.

2. Different smell

In addition to judging by appearance, they can also be distinguished by smell.

The smell of catnip doesn’t smell very strange and doesn’t give people any special feeling, but if a cat smells it, it will be very excited. If you can't distinguish the two, you can judge by the cat's reaction.

The smell of mint is stronger and feels cool, but cats don’t feel anything special when they smell it, and may even hate the smell.

3. Different varieties

Catnip belongs to the latter type, also known as cool mint, catnip, etc.

Mint includes the former, and its scientific name is Nepeta, which is a plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family and the Nepeta genus.