Virginian Skullcap, Blue skullcap

Scutellaria lateriflora

Physical Characteristics

Scutellaria lateriflora is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

N. America - Newfoundland to British Columbia, south to Florida and Ontario.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anticonvulsant Antispasmodic Astringent Diuretic Emmenagogue Epilepsy Miscellany Nervine Sedative Tonic A commonly used herbal medicine, Virginian skullcap is a very effective nervine that has traditionally been used in the treatment of a wide range of nervous conditions. Its tonic and restorative properties help to support and nourish the nervous system, calming and relieving stress and anxiety[222, 238, 244, 254]. Very little research has been carried out on this species, despite its long use in American and British herbal medicine[244]. Research is sorely needed, and may reveal more uses for this valuable herb[254]. The leaves are antispasmodic, slightly astringent, diuretic, nervine, sedative and strongly tonic[4, 21, 46, 165]. They are harvested in early summer and dried for later use[4]. It is used in the treatment of various problems of the nervous system including epilepsy, insomnia, anxiety, delirium tremens, withdrawal from barbiturates and tranquillisers, and neuralgia[222, 238, 244]. An infusion of the plant has been used to promote suppressed menstruation, relieve breast pain and encourage expulsion of the placenta[213, 254], it should not be given to pregnant women since it can induce a miscarriage[238]. This plant should be used with some caution since in excess it causes giddiness, stupor, confusion and twitching[238]. The plant was once believed of use in the treatment of rabies, though there is no evidence to support this[207, 213].

Known Hazards

Tincture overdose causes giddiness, stupor, confusion and seizures. Possible liver toxicity. may interfere with the immune response. Avoid during pregnancy [301].