Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
North American mint-family herb used in Eclectic and modern Western herbalism as a mild nervine, no regulator anchor.
Why
Scutellaria lateriflora (American skullcap, distinct from the TCM Scutellaria baicalensis) was used in 19th-century Eclectic medicine for nervous tension, insomnia and anxiety. Wolfson 2003 small RCT found acute anxiolytic-like effect in healthy adults; otherwise modern clinical evidence is sparse. Historical concern about adulteration with hepatotoxic Teucrium species is the principal quality concern.
How it works
Flavonoid baicalin (also in Scutellaria baicalensis) shows GABA-A receptor binding in vitro. Acute anxiolytic effect documented mechanistically; clinical translation is limited.
Expected onset · Acute calming within hours; sustained-use effects not well characterised
How to take
Dosage
Dried herb: 1–2 g three times daily as infusion. Tincture: 2–4 ml three times daily.
Timing
Throughout the day; evening dose for sleep support
On the label
Specifically 'Scutellaria lateriflora' (American skullcap), distinct from S. baicalensis (Chinese huang qin) which is for different uses. Verify species identity given historical Teucrium adulteration.
Ideal for
Adults with mild stress-related restlessness exploring Western-herbalist tradition; quality-sourced product is essential.
Safety
Evidence
Two small RCTs (Wolfson 2003, Brock 2014) reported acute anxiolytic-like effects on POMS and BAI scores. No regulator anchor available. Traditional-use registration only, no Cochrane review, no Well-Established Use monograph, no EFSA-authorised claim, and no major-journal RCT supports a specific therapeutic effect. Inclusion here reflects the documented tradition; modern clinical evidence is limited.
Traditional-use registration only, no Cochrane review, no Well-Established Use monograph, no EFSA-authorised claim, and no major-journal RCT supports a specific therapeutic effect. Inclusion here reflects the documented tradition; modern clinical evidence is limited.
Where to get it
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