Skullcap 50 gram (Scutellaria lateriflora)
Skullcap is a perennial plant that belongs to the Lipflower family (Labiatae or Lamiaceae). It is a plant of mostly wet, humus-rich soil in reed and marshes, swamp forests, along the water, in dune valleys and in moist, stony places. The plant is also found on drier soil in the dunes. The plant occurs naturally in the temperate and colder regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
A healthy herb
When talking about skullcap, reference is made mainly to two plants: the American skullcap or Scutellaria lateriflora and the Chinese skullcap or Scutellaria baicalensis. Both have been widely used for many years due to their highly appreciated properties in traditional medicine. Skullcap has been used for years to treat inflammation, relieve spasms, stimulate blood flow in the pelvic region, eliminate headaches, stimulate menstruation, reduce fever, treat gout and act as a sedative.
This medicinal plant has been used for more than two centuries by Native Americans and Europeans as a powerful nervous tonic, capable of reducing anxiety . At present, it is not surprising that there are studies that demonstrate the effects of this plant in both animals and humans. It should be noted that researchers have pointed out that oxidative stress is one of the main causes of diseases that affect brain performance such as anxiety, Alzheimer's, depression and Parkinson's. It is here where the interest in using plants, such as skullcap, gotu kola and others lies to combat free radicals and thus reduce oxidative stress.
Skullcap against insomnia
According to the author of the book "A Physician's Guide to Herbal Medicin", skullcap can help people who experience insomnia and other sleep problems such as restlessness, muscle tension and bruxism (Tension in the jaws). It is recommended to use a tea or tincture before bedtime to relax, avoid anxiety and have a restful sleep.
Today, Skullcap is often used for its benefits in stimulating and calming the nervous system. It has been said to be beneficial in treating the physical and emotional effects of anxiety, muscle tension and menstrual cramps. The anti-inflammatory effects of skullcap make it useful for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. It is also said to be beneficial for allergy sufferers and asthma.
How to use skullcap
Skullcap can be consumed as a delicious tea made from these herbs, but you can also find it in liquid extracts, tinctures, capsules and raw root extract. Mixing skullcap with valerian root is often done to to treat insomnia. Some people may suffer from allergic reactions when using this plant. It is for this reason, that it is recommended to start your consumption with low doses and increase it. In case of adverse reactions you should suspend its use.
