American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) may have gotten its name due to the shape of the two lobed flowers, which some claim looks like a helmet or bathing cap.. It is in the Lamiacea or mint plant family. The flowers range from pink to blue in color. There is some confusion in the herbal industry because a different species, Chinese Skullcap Herb Extract (Scutellaria baicalensis), has also been used for centuries in Chinese Folklore. Here we are referring to American Skullcap.
Skullcap is a shade-loving herbaceous perennial mint with ridged leaves that grows near wetlands in Canada and the Northeastern U.S. It reaches a height of from 1 to 4 feet tall. It was an important plant to the First Nation People in all the geographic locations where it is found in the wild. It is also easily grown from seeds in a shady spot in the garden. Skullcap Herb Extract earned the nickname “ Mad-Dog Weed” since it was reported to have been given to rabid dogs by early European settlers.
In traditional western herbalism, Skullcap has been called “the Mellow Mint” and is referred to as a nervine, which supports relaxation.* The plant provides micronutients and phytochemicals which serve to nourish the body and promote overall health and well being. *
The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance.