Skullcap
(Scutellaria lateriflora)
Botanical Information
A slender perennial from the Mint family with opposite leaves and 2-lipped blue flowers attached to the leaf nodes, with both pairs on pointing out from the same side of the stem, because one pair is bent back to align with the other pair.
Working with Skullcap
Part(s) Used
Leaf, Flowers
Herb Forms
Tincture, capsule, bulk herb, powder.
Skullcap is a relaxing nervine and antispasmodic which is recommended by herbalists to relieve headache, insomnia, premenstrual syndrome, nervous exhaustion, and teething. It is sometimes used to ease the discomfort of drug and alcohol withdrawal, and it is often considered one of the best herbs to lower excessive sexual desire.
Its Chinese counterpart, Scutellaria baicalensis, is used to remove heat from the respiratory and digestive systems and to lower blood pressure.
Skullcap has a taste of BITTER, SWEET and a temperature of COOL.
Cautions
None noted for skullcap, but commercially-available supplies are often adulterated with germander, a genus that has shown some liver toxicity. To be sure of a product containing skullcap, call the manufacturer for proof of identity.
Conditions treated with Skullcap
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
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Condition
Treatment Support
antispasmodic
Application
tincture, tablet, capsule, tea
Condition
Treatment Support
strengthening nervine, bitter digestive tonic
Application
tincture, tea
Condition
Treatment Support
anaphrodisiac
Application
tincture, tea, capsule
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.