Product Name
Historical uses
Category
Issued
Scullcap
Scutellaria laterifolia L.
Analgesic, antispasmodic, bactericide, febrifuge, hyperactivity, hypotensive, nervin, sedative, stomachic.
Single product
June 1996
Replaces:
N/A
Common Names:
Scullcap, Skullcap, Helmetflower, Hoodwort, Mad-Dog Weed.
Parts Used:
Dried herb.
Historical Uses:
Scullcap appears to have been introduced into traditional American medicine toward the end of the 1700s, when it was promoted as an effective treatment for the management of hydrophobia.
1
It was later used internally in the treatment of nervous conditions such as tension, excitability, restlessness, nervous twitches and insomnia.
2
It has been used in the treatment of epilepsy, hyperactivity, convulsions, tremors, snakes bites and insects stings.
3
Scullcap has also been used to treat female problems, including pre-menstrual tension and delayed menstruation.
1
It was given the name Mad-Dog Weed because of its use in treating dog bites. It has been used to treat alcoholic delirium.
Contraindications:
Scullcap should be avoided in cases of heart disease.
Adverse reactions:
Avoid excessive consumption.
Dosage:
10 to 40 drops three to four times per day. Take as needed to promote sleep.
References:
S. Talalaj & Dr A.S. Czechowicz,
Herbal Remedies Harmful and Beneficial Effects, Hill
of Content, Melbourne, 1989; Dr. A. B. Howard,
Herbal Extracts
,1990;
The Lawrence Review of Natural Products
.
© 2000, Pure Herbs J.B. Ltd
All right reserved
1
The Lawrence Review of Natural Products
2
S.Talalaj & Dr A.S.Czechowicz,
Herbal Remedies Harmful and Beneficial Effects,Hill
of Content,Melbourne, 1989,p.280
3
Dr. A. B. Howard,
Herbal Extracts
,1990, p.194.
This information is not intended to substitute medical advice regarding medical problems, diagnosis, treatments or healing of diseases or other physical and mental problems. This work is about historical observations and historical information relating to herbs. It is not the author's intention to establish prescriptions and/or diagnosis. The author and publisher deny responsibility in case of auto-prescription without former authorization of a physician.
