Scullcap is herbaceous plant that belongs to Lamiaceae family in the
genus Scutellaria.
It is a native to North America where it is extensively grown and
administered as a mild sedative.
The other species of scullcap have been found in Newfoundland to North
Carolina.
The plant is perennial, erect with multiple branches which are smooth
and quadrangular.
The plant grows to 1 or 2 feet in height and the leaves are acute, ovate
and opposite but supported upon long petioles.
The plant bears small pale blue tinted flowers and having long lateral
one sided, leafy racemes.
Scullcap is usually found near wet places along shorelines and fens and
the cultivation is majorly done in North America.
Leaves, roots.
The key constituents of skullcap are flavonoids (scutellarin), tannins,
bitter iridoids (catalpol), volatile oil, minerals, sitosterols and
benzoic acid.
The decoction of fresh leaves makes a good remedy for nervous breakdown,
anxiety, stress and premenstrual tension.
The tincture of fresh herb is given to calm nervousness and insomnia.
The actions of skullcap are reported as astringent, anti-spasmodic and
anti-inflammatory.
Traditionally skullcap treats nerve disorders and makes a tonic for
stress.
In china skullcap is been used as herbal medicine in therapeutic
activity.
This herb is also useful in high fever, cough with phlegm and
gastrointestinal infections like diarrhea.