Scutellaria lateriflora refers to American skullcap, a member of the mint family native to North America and now cultivated throughout the world. The plant gets its common name from the observance that when turned upside-down, the flowers resemble tiny caps or hats with visors.
Skullcap demonstrates potent antioxidant activity, as well as mild sedative effects. Due to the latter, this herb should not be combined with medications used to address anxiety, insomnia, depression, seizures or other neurological disorders.
