Skullcap
Scutellaria lateriflora
also known as American skullcap, Mad-dog skullcap
Moderate (traditional + emerging)
A North American mint-family herb traditionally used to ease anxiety and nervous tension — must be sourced from species-verified suppliers.
- Mild anxiolytic action
- Modulates GABA receptors
- Eases nervous tension and restlessness
- Used by Cherokee for ceremonial purposes
- Adopted into Eclectic medicine in the 1700s
Active in Baicalin, Scutellarin, Flavonoids.
Confirm species — only American (S. lateriflora) is safe; Chinese skullcap (S. baicalensis) is different
Past contamination with toxic germander caused liver injuries
Use only reputable, species-verified sources
Use caution with sedatives
Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery
Insufficient data in pregnancy
Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs · EMA Herbal Medicinal Product Monographs · American Botanical Council HerbMedPro
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