Skullcap (scutellaria lateriflora) belongs to the mint family. It grows to approximately three feet in height and produces pale purple or blue flowers which resemble a medieval skullcap. The herb has been widely used by Native Americans and Europeans for its medicinal qualities. Yet, there has been no noteworthy scientific evidence as to the effectiveness of this herbal remedy.
Traditional Uses for Skullcap
Traditionally, skullcap has been used to alleviate conditions relating to the nervous system. As such, it is believed helpful with all manners of muscle spasms and twitches. These spasms may be related to restless leg syndrome (RLS) or fibromyalgia, two conditions often treated by herbalists with skullcap. Because the muscle spasms of RLS can disturb one's rest, skullcap is used to help people sleep. This makes the herb commonly used as a sedative to calm the muscles.
Skullcap, when combined with chaste tree or false unicorn, is used to treat PMS. It is also helpful in helping someone overcome drug or alcohol abuse. The herb may also reduce fevers, and help stimulate digestion and liver function. And historically, skullcap was used to treat rabies.
Over the years, skullcap has been prescribed by herbalists for a multitude of abnormally tense or twitching muscles conditions, including: rabies, Parkinson's disease, St. Vitus dance (which is an acute chorea, or a disease of the nervous system characterized by involuntary movements of the arms and legs), and epilepsy. Skullcap also possesses anti-inflammatory qualities. It works by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine and histamine, substances our bodies release which results in inflammation.
Uses and Doses of Skullcap
If taking skullcap in capsule form, be sure to follow the bottle's instructions. Begin any new herb at the minimal dose. See if you are able to feel any effects before increasing your dosage. Do not exceed the maximum dosage.
Herbs can also be collected fresh and made into teas and tinctures. Collect the leaves of a skullcap in late spring or early summer when the plant is in bloom. You can also collect the small blooms for use. Dry the flowers and leaves for use. You can make tea with a tablespoon of skullcap steeped in hot water for about 15 minutes. Drink 3 to 6 cups a day for a couple of days then reduce your intake to 2 to 3 cups a day if needed. If you need skullcap for long-term use, drink the tea 1 to 3 times a day. Alternatively, you can prepare the dried leaves and flowers into a tincture. Then take a dose up to 1 tsp., 2 to 4 times a day. Again begin with a lower dose, increasing as you feel is necessary.
Cautions in Using Skullcap
All herbs should be treated with the same care as any other medicine. This means you should always speak with your doctor before trying herbal remedies. This is especially true if you are on any other prescription medications. As with all medicines, take care not to exceed the recommended dose. Overdosing on Skullcap may cause twitching, stupor, giddiness, mental confusion, an irregular heartbeat or epileptic-like symptoms. Pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding should not use skullcap. Do not take skullcap if you take anti-anxiety medications, barbiturates or other sedatives.
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