Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Skullcap Overview

Botanical Name:  Scutellaria lateriflora

Common Names: American skullcap, Mad Dog Skullcap

Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family)

Description:  Skullcap is a gentle, relaxing nervine traditionally used to support the nervous system. It is traditionally known for promoting calm, reducing mild tension, and supporting restful sleep.

Energetics:  cooling, calming, mildly sedative

Plant Actions & Traditional Uses:

•  Nervine-supports the nervous system, mild tension, stress, and nervous exhaustion
  
• Sedative- supports Mild calming effect, & promote relaxation & restful sleep
• Anxiolytic- Supports reduction in mild anxiety and nervous agitation
• Spasmolytic- Supports relax muscle spasms, especially in the nervous system
• Anticonvulsant (Mild)- Traditionally used for mild seizure support
• Cerebral Tonic/ Neurotonic- Supports cognitive function and healthy nervous system resilience
• Hepatoprotective (Mild)- Some studies suggest protective effects on liver tissue.

Safety Notes: Generally safe, avoid high doses in pregnancy , or with sedatives without professional supervision. Do not use if liver disease and may interact with sedatives in rare cases.  Only use occasionally & not long term.

Most actions are mild and cumulative, safe for general use in most adults.

Products & Forms:

Skullcap Tea         Loose leaf tea, calming and easy to brew         1 oz                  $15

Skullcap Tincture      Alcohol -based. (1:5) Supports nervous system relaxation.      $24

Skullcap Glycerite     Alcohol-free extract, suitable for sensitive individuals  (custom order)

Companion Herbs: 

• Works well with Linden, Passionflower, Lemon Balm, Valerian. Catnip, Hops, Chamomile 
• Add Skullcap to your own custom tea or tincture blend.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. Herbal Educational Purposes only.