What Is the Herb Skullcap Used For?

Skullcap (sometimes spelled "scullcap", Latin name Scutellaria lateriflora) is a medicinal herb that is used for insomnia and muscle spasms. The species is native to North America, although members of the genus Scutellaria are found all over the world.

Plant Facts

• Skullcap is an erect, perennial herb that stands 12 to 28 inches tall and bears small blue flowers. It prefers moist or wet soil and can usually be found growing on the shores of rivers and lakes. The Latin and common names of the plant derive from the upper lip of the flower, which resembles a small helmet. Common names for the plant include blue pimpernel, hoodwort, madweed--it was used to treat rabies--and Virginian skullcap.

Benefits

• Skullcap is useful for those who have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep because of muscle tightness or recurrent worries. It also can be used to calm the spasms of an incessant cough and is useful for headaches caused by muscle spasms. Historically, it was used to treat the convulsions of epilepsy and rabies.

How to Take the Herb

• Skullcap is taken as a tea or tincture (alcohol extract). The stems and leaves are used medicinally. Herbalists gather the plant when it is just beginning to bud. Skullcap can be taken by itself but is most often used in combination with other herbs, including passionflower and oatstraw (for sedative formulas); St. John's wort and chamomile (for minor depression); and kava kava and valerian (for muscle spasms).

Contraindications

• Large doses of skullcap tincture may cause giddiness, stupor and confusion. In moderate doses, the herb is considered safe. There are no known drug interactions with skullcap.

Notes

• Please consult an herbalist, naturopathic practitioner or other natural medicine professional for further guidance in the use of this herb. Persistent insomnia may be a sign of a deeper condition and should be evaluated by a physician.