American Skullcap

 

     Some plants I’m drawn too because of their striking beauty. With others, it’s their name. This little mint-family plant was first brought to my attention after I was in a car accident that left every muscle in my back in some serious spasms. Skullcap, or Scutellaria lateriflora, is a well-known natural muscle relaxer that does not leave you drowsy or unable to function. It may not look like much, but it is a wonderful herb to get to know.

     Scutellaria lateriflora is endemic (meaning it can only be found) to North America, but there are species of skullcaps found throughout the world. S. baicalensis and S. barbatae are two species that are native to Eastern Asia and Northern China and are commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. These two often get confused with S. lateriflora though these plants are used quite differently in practice. 

     Scutellaria is a genus of around 300 species in the Lamiaceae, or mint, family. They are annual or perennial and have the standard traits of most mints. They are known for square stems, opposite and toothed leaves, with bilaterally symmetrical flowers. Unlike most mint family plants, Scutellaria tend to not be aromatic. S. lateriflora is a wetland loving species that grows near marshes, meadows and other wet habitats. The blue to purple petals of the flowers were said to resemble the helmets of medieval European soldiers, hence its common name: skullcap.

Medicinal Uses:

Common Names- American Skullcap, Blue Pimpernel, Blue Skullcap, Escutelaria, Grande Toque, Helmet Flower, Hoodwort, Mad-Dog Herb, Mad-Dog Skullcap, Mad-Dog Weed, Mad Weed, Quaker Bonnet, & Scullcap

Scientific Name- Scutellaria lateriflora (Scutellaria baicalensis is a different plant with slightly different uses)

Family- Lamiaceae (Mint Family)

Summary of Actions- Abortifacient, Anticonvulsant, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Antispasmodic, Anxiolytic, Astringent (slightly), Bitter, Emmenagogue, Febrifuge, Nervine tonic & Relaxant, Hypotensive, Sedative, Tonic 

Parts Used- Aerial (above ground parts)

Energetics/Flavors- Bitter, Cold

Key Constituents- Flavonoids, Baicalein, Apigenin, Oroxylin A, Scutellarein, Steroidal saponins, Glycosides, Volatile oils, Tannins, Zinc. More than 295 chemical compounds have been isolated.

Edibility- The aerial parts can safely be eaten raw or cooked. The flowers make wonderful garnishes for pastries. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Huang Qin (Scutellaria baicalensis) and Ban Zhi Lian (S. barbatae) are the two common Chinese names for Skullcap. I’m not aware of a Chinese name for S. lateriflora, though it is used for the Stomach, Lungs, and Kidney meridians. It helps move Qi and calm nerves, clears heat and resolves fevers, restores stomach function and promotes urination. Skullcap is also used for snakebite, rashes, and insect bites. 

Ayurveda- This herb is used in Ayurvedic medicine for Pitta types that tend to become irritable, angry, or may struggle with sleep because of stress. It also is used in a preparation (Ramayana #16) that is used to treat epilepsy.

Native American Traditional Uses- The Cherokee, and some other Native American Tribes, used Skullcap as an herb for female issues. It was predominantly used as an emmenagogue, helping to bring on late periods and stimulate blood flow in the pelvic regions as well as in the uterus. A decoction of the root was also taken after birth to stimulate the reproductive system. It was also used in purification ceremonies when some menstrual taboos were broken, or in ceremonies to bring girls into womanhood. The Iroquois use an infusion of the root to keep the throat clear. Other Native American tribes use closely related species as bitter tonics for the kidneys. This herb is used to induce visions and as a ceremonial plant to be smoked as tobacco by some Native Indians. It was also thought to be effective against rabies (modern research discredited this use), which is why one of the common names is Mad-Dog Herb.

Healthy Sleep- Skullcap is a gentle sedative that doesn’t cause extreme lethargy like many other sedatives do. However, it is still a great herb for insomnia and other sleeping problems. Particularly restlessness, muscle tension, and jaw clenching. This herb helps to quiet racing thoughts and has also been known to reduce nightmares. 

Pain- Skullcap is useful for general pain such as headaches, injuries, spasmodic pains such as cramps and general body pains. By itself it’s not very potent. However, it can help amplify the pain-relieving properties of other herbs. It also doesn’t cause lethargy or brain fog like some other pain-relieving herbs do, so if you need to be aware of, and focused on, what you are doing but still need a bit of pain-relief, Skullcap is a great herb.

Anxiety, Depression, Nervous Tension, & Stress- S. lateriflora helps to nourish and mildly sedate the nervous system. This makes it a great stress neutralizer that helps calm and center people that deal with high amounts of stress on a daily basis. It also helps to detox the body, helping to get rid of built-up stress hormones and releasing nervous tension. These properties along with the trophorestorative (restoring the nutrition uptake of the nerves) effects of this herb make it great to help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression and helping to fight burnout.

Seizures- This herb’s anticonvulsant and antispasmodic properties make it a great herb to help prevent seizures in those who struggle with epilepsy. It can also help to relax muscles and ease some of the pain that occurs after a seizure.

Muscle Relaxant- The primary way I personally use this herb is as a muscle relaxant. It helps reduce cramps and spasms in both skeletal and smooth muscle tissue without causing drowsiness. 

PMS and Women’s Complaints- Women use S. lateriflora to stimulate menstrual flow when menstruation is absent such as in hormonal disorders or conditions like oligomenorrhea (light menses). It is also often used in combination with crampbark (Viburnum opulus) to help prevent or treat cramps associated with menses and/or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s- Oxidative stress affects some brain-related diseases, such Alzheimer’s disease, depression and Parkinson’s disease. Skullcap is an antioxidant that has tonic actions on the central nervous system. Some research indicates that bioactive compounds found skullcap, may neutralize, and even eliminate toxic free radicals that cause this damage. In addition to its antioxidant activities, it also helps to support proper blood flow to the brain. 

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- There are possible drug interactions with central nervous system depressants and other sedatives (including anesthesia). If you are taking any of these, or preparing for surgery, check with your doctor before trying American Skullcap. Avoid during pregnancy as it may trigger a miscarriage. 

     I only included a basic introduction to this amazing little herb. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram for updates and more adventures in nature. Fine me on YouTube and check out my videos! I also have a few things up on TeeSpring, check it out! If you like what I do and want to see more, Become a Patron!

Resources:

American Skullcap: Gaia Herbs: https://www.gaiaherbs.com/blogs/herbs/american-skullcap

Scutellaria lateriflora: Plants for a Future: https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Scutellaria+lateriflora

Skullcap: St. Luke’s Hospital: https://www.stlukes-stl.com/health-content/medicine/33/000273.htm

Skullcap: White Rabbit Institute of Healing: https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/skullcap/

Skullcap 101: Traditional Medicinals: https://www.traditionalmedicinals.com/articles/plants/skullcap-101/

Skullcap- Benefits, Side Effects, and Dosage: Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/skullcap

Skullcap: The National Center for Biotechnology Information: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548757/#:~:text=Skullcap%20is%20a%20flowering%20perennial,nervousness%2C%20digestive%20and%20kidney%20problems.

Skullcap Energetics, S. Lateriflora or North American Skullcap: The Practical Herbalist: https://thepracticalherbalist.com/advanced-herbalism/skullcap-energetics-s-lateriflora-or-north-american-skullcap/

SKULLCAP- MINTY, MAGICAL HERB FOR STRESS RELIEF: Calm Botanicals: https://www.calmbotanicals.com/blogs/news/skullcap-minty-magical-herb-for-stress-relief

Skullcap-Potential medicinal Crop: Purdue University: https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/ncnu02/v5-580.html

Skullcap- The Perfect Herb for Flu Season and Beyond: Dr. Axe: https://draxe.com/nutrition/skullcap/

The Skullcaps-A Scutellaria Monograph: Northeast School of Botanical Medicine: https://7song.com/the-skullcaps-a-scutellaria-monograph/

Passionflower

     One of my favorite things about living in Florida is the plant life. We have amazing plants growing everywhere. There are beautiful vines and flowers on every fence in my neighborhood. Most people have at least one tree somewhere on their property. Even the weeds growing in the sidewalk or pavement can be extraordinary. However, there is one flowering vine that sticks out for it's unique beauty.

     Passionflower is a Florida native and has been used medicinally by Native Americans for centuries. When the Spanish came to America, they used this flower to help teach the Native Americans about Christ and the crucifixion. These missionaries are where we get the name Passionflower from, as they named it after the Passion of Christ. The 10 petals represent the disciples that were present for the crucifixion. The three stigma represent the nails, while the five anthers represent the wounds of Christ, and the fringes represent the crown of thorns.

     There are quite a few different species of passionflower, many of which have edible fruit. Some of these species are purely ornamental and not safe for consumption. If you are interested in wildcrafting or growing this plant for either edible or medicinal use, make sure you have one of the acceptable species. Passiflora incarnata is the most commonly used species, and is generally recognized as safe.

Medicinal Uses:

Scientific Name- Passiflora incarnata

Common Names- Passionflower, Maypop, Passion Vine

Parts Used- Leaves, stem, and flowers.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Though this herb is native to America, it has become widely used throughout most of the world. In TCM, it is used to help calm the Qi in cases of overload, as opposed to blockage. It's particularly good for Fire-types who are prone to heart conditions.

Native American- The Cherokee were very fond of using the root. They used a poultice of the root to draw out inflammation in wounds. They also used a tea of the root to wean infants, and for earache.

Insomnia- Passiflora works directly on the nervous system to help lull us to sleep. It's particularly effective for those who suffer from insomnia, as it allows for restful sleep and does not leave one with a “narcotic” hangover. This herb is especially good for people who suffer from circular thinking, acting as an “off switch” for their minds.

Anxiety- Much like it's use as an “off switch” for circular thinking that leads to insomnia, passiflora helps to stop nervous and anxious thoughts from taking hold in our day-to-day lives. It also helps soothe our nerves when overstimulated and overworked.

Nervous System- Passiflora is an excellent herb for the nervous system. Historically it's even been used to calm seizures. It is considered to be a great nervine tonic, which means that it soothes nerves. It helps in cases of insomnia, anxiety, anxietous depression, hypersensitivity to pain, headaches, agitation, transitioning from addictions, nervous tics, PMS, menstrual cramps, and overstimulation. Passiflora also helps those who have a tendency to dissolve into circular thinking, especially when insomnia is involved.

Herpes Simplex Virus- Passiflora helps prevent outbreaks of the herpes simplex virus. It's especially helpful in stress-induced outbreaks.

Summary of actions- Hypnotic, analgesic, hypotensive, nervine, anxiolytic, anti-spasmodic, and antidepressant.

Drug Interactions and Contraindications- Passiflora is a strong, natural sedative and has great potential to interact with certain drugs. Please use caution if you are taking any sedatives, antiplatelets, anticoagulants, tricyclic antidepressants, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors. For most other people, this herb is considered safe for regular use, however pregnant or nursing women should exercise caution and check with their doctor before use.

     I only included a basic introduction to this amazing herb. I hope you have learned a new appreciation for how amazing passionflower is. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below.

Refrences:

Acupuncture Today: Passion Flower : http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/herbcentral/passion_flower.php

Alternative Nature Online Herbal: Passionflower Herb Uses and Medicinal Properties: https://altnature.com/gallery/passionflower.htm

Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine: Passionflower-Ecology Cultivation Botany and Medicinal and Edible Uses: https://chestnutherbs.com/passionflower-ecology-cultivation-botany-and-medicinal-and-edible-uses/

Henriette's Herbal Home Page : Passiflora-Passionflower : http://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/kings/passiflora.html

Herb Rally: Passionflower: http://www.herbrally.com/monographs/passionflower/

Modern Herbal: Passion Flower: http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/p/pasflo14.html

Sama Ayurveda: Passion Flower: http://samaayurveda.com/passion-flower/

University of Maryland Medical Center: Passionflower: http://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/passionflower