Blue Skullcap, also known as mad dog skullcap, blue pimpernel and American skullcap, is a perennial member of the mint family that is native to North America. In contrast to many other mints, this species prefers marshes and other damp places to woodland settings or open fields. The herb was well known to Native Americans, who introduced the plant to early European settlers. Although organic skullcap herb is often used to produce tinctures and infused oils for cosmetic and other topical preparations, it is most commonly used to make teas, tonics and liquid extracts, sometimes in combination with valerian. Where to buy skullcap herb online? Skullcap herb bulk can be purchased in ¼ pound and full pound quantities on this page.
description Scutellaria lateriflora is a hardy perennial herb of the mint family, Lamiaceae.
It has an upright habit, its maximum height reaching 60 to 80 centimeters. Skullcap's small blue flowers are just short of one centimeter in length, most of them being produced along the length of side branches that grow from the leaf axils and not at the top of the main stem. The plant flowers from June to August; and its seeds ripen from July to September.
common names & nomenclature When turned upside down the flower's calyx resembles a helmet with the visor raised, which has given rise to the common name skullcap.
Also known as: blue skullcap, mad dog skullcap, blue pimpernel, american skullcap, virginia skullcap
Scutellaria lateriflora is native to North America—it also grows in Europe and Southern Canada.
climate Skullcap is a wetland-loving species; it thrives in proximity to marshes, meadows, and other wet habitats in sunny locations.
soil Skullcap grows well in any moist garden soil that does not dry out during the growing season.
growing In late spring, sow skullcap seeds directly in the garden. Plant divisions or basal cuttings can also be taken in late spring or early summer, grow the cuttings on in pots until they are rooting well.
harvesting Harvest leaves in summer and dry for later use.
preserving Store dried skullcap leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Many Skullcap species grow in Europe, but the American herb is the one used in herbal healing. It's sometimes called Virginia skullcap, but it grows all over the United States and southern Canada.
Skullcap is a slender, 2-foot, branching, square-stemmed perennial with opposite, serrated leaves. The flowers have two lips. The upper lip includes an elongated caplike append-age, which is the source of most of the herb's popular names. Skullcap may be propagated be seeds of root divisions planted in early spring, thin seedlings to 6-inch spacing. Skullcap grows in any well drained soil under full sun and requires little care. Although it is a perennial skullcap rarely lives longer than three years. Harvest the leaves in midsummer.
Formulas & recipes Skullcap herb uses Skullcap can be used to infuse oils, make tinctures and teas. The skullcap herb is part of the mint family, so tea is usually preferred because of the calming and peaceful aroma of the leaf. Skullcap herb can be blended with other teas or drank on its own, no sweetener needed.
Skullcap herb tea -Put 1 tablespoon of skullcap herb into a tea bag -Pour boiled water over the tea bag -Let steep for 10 minutes -Enjoy with honey or no sweetener
Health benefits Skullcap herb health benefits There are a variety of skullcap herb benefits. Skullcap herb is known to help anxiety and other neurological tensions. It is recommended for people with depression as well, because of its significant antioxidant effects. Skullcap is also said to prevent other neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s disease.
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
