-IBIS-1.7.0-
rx
herb
Scutellaria spp. (Skullcap)
Botanicals

definition

botanical name(s): Scutellaria lateriflora, S. baicalensis, S. galericulata, S. ovata

synonyms: skullcap

part(s) used: aerial portion

qualities: bitter, cold, dry

affinities: central nervous system, liver

actions: sedative nervine, antispasmodic, bitter

dosage:

» infusion: 1 - 2 tsp. herb to one cup water; drink 1 - 3 cups per day

» tincture: 2 - 4 ml.

» powder: 1 - 2 g

therapy: nervous tension, insomnia, premenstrual syndrome

AHPA Botanical Safety Rating: 1

toxicity: 1

» overdose may result in giddiness, stupor, mental confusion, fasciculations, and intermittent changes in the pulse; epileptic signs and symptoms may develop (Duke, p. 440)

» reports of hepatotoxicity may be a result of the common adulteration of S. lateriflora with germander (Teucrium spp.) (McGuffin)

constituents: flavonoid glycoside, iridoids, volatile oil, waxes, tannins

footnotes

Duke, J.A. 1985. C.R.C. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton, FL: The C.R.C. Press.

McGuffin, Michael, ed. 1997. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: The CRC Press.