Scutellaria lateriflora L. (Skullcap) is known for its nervine, antispasmodic and tonic qualities. I use it as a tea and I know the source is good because of the smell of the dried  herb and the action it has on me. If you can’t find a good dried source for your skullcap then you can also find this herb in a tincture form and you will get excellent results with a tincture. Tincture forms of herbs are stronger then teas or infusions of dried herbs. The main use for this herb is anxiety and sleeplessness. My husband finds the antispasmodic quality very helpful, as he would often get muscle cramps at night that would wake him up.

Most herbs that have a bitter taste have tonic properties to them, but this herb will most likely make you feel sleepy, so if you want a nutritive boost and you need some help with anxiety or sleep troubles this herb could be very helpful to you.

* A note about boiling there are many herbs that can be used for tea but you don’t want them boiled. What I do is boil my water, wait for it to stop boiling then pour it over my tea. Easy peasy

Contraindications

Skullcap should never be boiled. Overdoses of  the tincture are possible so follow the instructions on the label or your health care providers instructions.