← The Herb LibraryWinter’s living materia medica

Skullcap

Scutellaria lateriflora

Skullcap
Wikimedia Commons · Rolf Engstrand · Image source · CC BY-SA 3.0

Overview

One of the finest nervines in the Western materia medica. Skullcap calms racing thoughts, eases nervous tension, and supports sleep without dulling the senses. Best used as fresh-plant tincture.

Actions

Nervine · Anxiolytic · Antispasmodic · Mild sedative

Affinities

Nervous system · Brain

Cautions & contraindications

Mild liver concern with excessive long-term use. Quality varies significantly — source carefully.