Skullcap

Scutellaria lateriflora

Native to: North America

Scutellaria baicalensis is native to Asia.

Used to treat rabies in the 19th century, which coined it as "mad-dog weed".
Western herbalism reccommends use as a mild sedative & to calm the nerves.
Native American practices utilized to treat agitation, as well as promote menstruation & calm menstrual pain.
Utilized to treat hysteria, seizures & nervous system exhaustion in early American herbalism.

Those with liver disease or taking hepatoxic drugs should avoid skullcap, or use with caution.
May interact with sedatives, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants; this may increase risk of side effects.
Due to insufficient data, skullcap is not recommended to use during nursing or pregnancy.
Individuals allergic to plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae) may also be allergic to skullcap.

Awad, R. et al. (2003).

Phytotherapy Research, 17(4), 380–382.
[Clinical trial showing skullcap's anxiolytic effects]

Winston, D., & Maimes, S. (2007).

Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief.
Healing Arts Press.

Hoffmann, D. (2003).

Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine.
Healing Arts Press.

Moerman, D. E. (1998).

Native American Ethnobotany.
Timber Press.

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