Skullcap comes from the leaves and roots of two perennials, Scutellaria laterifolia and S. baicalensis, that are native to temperate regions of North America. Although usually taken orally, skullcap can be injected into a muscle or vein.
Effects:
Skullcap is a powerful medicinal herb. Some valuable constituents found in the plant are Scutellarin, Catalpol, other Volatile oils, bitter iridoids and Tannins.
Scientific studies are proving this to be a valuable plant in many areas for mental disorders. Skullcap is used in the treatment of a wide range of nervous conditions including epilepsy, insomnia, hysteria, anxiety, delerium tremens, withdrawal from barbiturates and tranquilisers.
A medicinal infusion of the plant is used to promote menstruation, it should not be given to pregnant women since it can induce a miscarriage, the infusion is also used in the treatment of throat infections. The infusion is given for nervous headaches, neuralgia and in headache arising from incessant coughing, pain, and inducing sleep when necessary, without any unpleasant symptoms following. Skullcap is currently being used as an alternative medicine to treat ADD and a number of nerve disorders.
Research suggests skullcap may enhance cancer chemotherapy. One study of lung cancer patients found that adding skullcap to their chemotherapy boosted their immune systems. Another showed that the herb helped to support patient’s circulatory and immune systems during chemotherapy.
Incredibly soothing and stimulating feelings were reported when mixed with Damiana.
Dosage:
1 to 2 grams taken orally as tea three times daily |
