Skullcap (eskulkap in tagalog)

(Scutellaria lateriflora) Part used: Tops. Properties: Antispasmodic, nervine, antipyretic. What it affects: Nerves and stomach.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 15-30 min. Take 3 oz. 4-5 times daily. Tincture: Take 10-40 drops 3-4 times daily. Fluid extract: Take 1/4 tsp. 3-4 times daily. Powder: Take 3-5 capsules (15-30 grains) 2-3 or more times daily.

Purposes: Skullcap is one of the most needed herbs for your collection, and is very good for almost any nervous problem. It is a very safe and reliable nerve sedative. It is food for the nerves, supporting and strengthening  them as it gives immediate relief of all chronic and acute diseases stemming from nervous affections and debility. Whatever the nerve problem, mild or chronic, skullcap can provide help. Combine it with other tonic, nervine, and antispasmodic herbs (such as hops, wood betony, lady’s slipper, and passionflower). It may be used freely and is essentially nontoxic. Use an ounce of the herb steeped in a pint of boiled water, for 10 minutes.

Internally, skullcap is good for drug and alcoholic withdrawal symptoms, insomnia, epilepsy, neuralgia, convulsions, coughs, indigestion, insanity, muscle cramps, pain, stress, anxiety, fatigue, headache, nervous headache, hyperactivity, hysteria, restlessness, spasms, or excitability. It is used to wean people from barbiturates, excessive use of valium, and other addictions. In combination with American ginseng (1/4 oz.) and skullcap (1/2 oz.), taken in small frequent doses, it is a good treatment for alcoholism. First make a decoction of ginseng root, then an infusion of skullcap, then combine the two.

• American Indian used skullcap to promote menstruation. It will reduce pains of ovarian or uterine origin. It strengthens the heart muscle. It is said to be effective against rabies. 

Note: Skullcap should be used as fresh as possible, otherwise its activity rather quickly dissipates.