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Scutellaria Lateriflora

Blue Skullcap

Also known as “Blue Skullcap,” is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to North America and is known for its small, tubular blue flowers that bloom in the late spring.

COMMON NAME

Blue Skullcap, American skullcap

FAMILY NAME

Lamiaceae

ACTIONS

Skullcap is a sedative, nervous system relaxant and tonic, antispasmodic, and anticonvulsant.

BENEFITS

Scutellarialateriflora is used to help with anxiety, insomnia, and nervous energy.

BENEFITS
When used properly, Scutellarialateriflora, orblueskullcap, can help with anxiety and stress due to the flavonoids and its calming effects on the nervous system. It can also act as a mild sedative to potentially help alleviate feelings of anxiety. Scutellarialaterifloracan also help with insomnia and sleep disorders and help promote relaxation to improve sleep. Lastly, skullcap can also be used to support the nervous system, specifically to help with nervous tension, restlessness, and irritability and provide a sense of tranquility.
USAGE
Scutellarialateriflora is typically used in herbal medicine and can be consumed in herbal tea. It is also often available in a tincture form (alcohol extract) and can be taken in small doses. Other uses include topical applications for skin related issues, and combination formulas to help with relaxation and sleep.
MORE INFO
Like many medicinal herbs, skullcap has a long history of use in Native American and Western herbal medicine. Native Americans specifically used it to treat menstrual disorders, nervousness, digestive, and kidney problems. When European settlers in North America learned about the Native American uses of skullcap, they adopted it into their own herbal traditions. Interestingly enough, the term “skullcap” was coined due to the flower’s resemblance to the helmets worn by European soldiers.