Looking for a natural sleep aid? Try skullcap herb. It is a member of the mint family that is used as an herbal remedy for sleep and a wide variety of nervine (nervous system) disorders, including irritability, headache, and spasms. It can be taken as a tea, tincture, or capsule. Because it has a tonic effect, it may be used over long periods of time. It is common to combine it with other gentle nervine herbs, including catnip, hops, passion flower, oats, and lemon balm.
Scutellaria Lateriflora
Skullcap, also spelled "scullcap," is a widespread genus of herbaceous plants in the mint family. Scutellaria lateriflora, a native to North America, is the species most often used medicinally. It is considered a superior herbal remedy for the nervous system. Indeed, in A Modern Herbal (1971), M. Grieve wrote, "[It] is one of the finest nervines ever discovered" (p. 724). Other species of skullcap are sometimes used as a substitute, including the English S. galericulata and the American S. integrifolia.
S. laterifloria's chemical constituents include tannin, scutellarein, and a volatile oil called scutellarin. The leaves of the plant are the part most commonly used in medicinal preparations. S. lateriflora is also known as "madweed" or "mad-dog skullcap," because it is a traditional remedy for hydrophobia (rabies).
Skullcap Indications
Skullcap is nerve-soothing herbal remedy that has many uses. It is primarily known as a "nervine," which means it has a therapeutic effect on the nervous system, and as a "nerve tonic," which means that it strengthens and tones the nervous system with extended use. It is also known for having an antispasmodic effect. Its many indications include:
- insomnia
- headaches caused by nervousness or tension
- St. Vitus's dance (chorea)
- stress
- irritability
- spasms
- neuralgia
Preparation and Usage
Skullcap may be used as a tea (water infusion), a tincture (alcohol or glycerin infusion), or in a capsule. Suggestions for dosage and frequency vary between sources. Rosemary Gladstar (2001) suggests:
- 2-3 cups of skullcap tea daily, or
- 3 1/4 tsp. doses of tincture daily, diluted in 1/2 cup of warm water.
Alternately, M. Grieve (1971) suggests boiling one ounce of skullcap in a pint of water and taking this tea every few hours in half-teacupful doses.
Gladstar (2001) advises using skullcap for extended periods of time for the most benefit from the herb; this is to take advantage of its tonic effect on the nervous system.
Skullcap tea bags, tinctures, and capsules can be purchased at natural health stores. However, herbs can lose their potency when ground up and stored for long periods of time, so capsules are the least recommended form. Instead, consider purchasing a tincture, as the plant material used in the extract is usually fresher, and tinctures have a much better shelf life. For the freshest and most beneficial experience, try purchasing and preparing organic loose-leaf skullcap herb, which is available on-line and in some stores.
Skullcap Warnings
When using the tincture, take only in the suggested dose (as listed above or on the tincture label), because according to M. Grieve (1971), it is possible to overdose on this preparation. Signs of skullcap tincture overdose include:
- giddiness
- stupor
- confusion
- twitching
- irregular pulse
Also, it is important to seek professional medical attention first - before attempting to self treat - if experiencing serious nervous system symptoms, including:
- prolonged or frequent headaches
- involuntary movements
- convulsions or seizures
- nerve pain
- prolonged insomnia
- signs, symptoms, or suspicion of having rabies
Skullcap is a helpful therapeutic herb that you can ask your physician or nurse practitioner about including in your plan of care, but it is not a miracle drug that can cure serious maladies. Please use with discretion and guidance.
References:
Gladstar, R. (2001). Rosemary Gladstar's Family Herbal: A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality. North Adams, MA: Storey Books.
Grieve, M. (1971). A Modern Herbal: Volume II. New York: Dover Publications.
Kloss, J. (1988). Back to Eden: Golden 50th Anniversary Edition. Loma Linda, CA: Back to Eden Publishing Co.
Christie Bailey - Christie is an RN, BSN with a passion for holistic health. Currently, she is pursuing her masters degree to become a holistic nurse ...
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