American skullcap is a perennial that can reach heights of three feet or more. It is a member of the mint family and is found in the woods and damp meadows throughout Northern America. Its blue flowers bloom in the late summer. They are collected along with the leaves and stems to be dried for use in medicine.

American skullcap is not to be mistaken for its related species called Baikal or Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis).

Because of its slightly calming effects, American skullcap has been used as the main component in a variety of medicinal tonics. Today it is more effective and less harmful than in years past. Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora), or “mad dog weed”, was used for rabies. It has been used for over two hundred years as a mild relaxant that affects the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. It has also been used in therapy for anxiety, nervous tension, hysteria, and convulsions and is currently also used in connection with symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), stress-related headaches, anorexia nervosa, and insomnia.

Today skullcap is commonly used to treat anxiety, nervous tension, muscle spasms, PMS-related symptoms, tension headaches, restless legs syndrome, insomnia, and mild Tourette’s syndrome.

Dosage and Administration

Skullcap may be used for calming purposes in children as a mild tea. The dose is given according to the child's age and weight.

• Children 1 to 2 years (24 lb [11 kg] or less) - ¼ cup one to three times per day
• Children 3 to 6 years (25 to 48 lb [11 to 22 kg]) - ½ cup one to four times per day
• Children 7 to 11 years (49 to 95 lb [22 to 43 kg]) - ¾ cup one to four times per day
• Children 12 and older (over 95 lb [43 kg]) - 1 cup one to four times per day

• If using fluid extract one parts skullcap, one part water in 25% alcohol, use 2 to 4 mL three times per day.
• For tincture, one part skullcap five parts water in 45% alcohol, use 2 to 5 mL three times per day.

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