Skullcap

Scutellaria lateriflora

Skullcap is a name that refers to any of the Scutellaria species of the Lamiaceae or mint family.  The plant's name refers to the helmet-shaped top of the plant's tiny flowers.

In herbal medicine, the name skullcap refers to Scutellaria lateriflora, an herb native to North America and cultivated in Europe.  Skullcap was once called mad-dog weed because of its use during the eighteenth century to treat rabies.  In addition, Native Americans used Skullcap as a sedative, tranquilliser and a digestive aid. Other cultures have used it both as a sedative and to lower fevers.

In contemporary Western herbal medical practice,  Skullcap is used as a nerve tonic and mild sedative, a remedy for anxiety, nervous tension, premenstrual syndrome, insomnia, stress headaches, muscle spasms, seizures, epilepsy and disorders arising from physical and mental overwork as well as physical and mental tiredness.

Although Skullcap is currently known best as an herbal sedative, it may contribute to lowering of blood pressure by reducing tension.  Skullcap is also used as a remedy for exhaustion, convulsions, menstrual cramps, and as a treatment for withdrawal from alcohol and tobacco. The herb may be taken as a bitter tonic to boost digestion.

Cautions and Contraindications.
None known.