Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora / Scutellaria baicalensis)
Synopsis of skullcap
Skullcap refers to a group of calming herbs in the mint family, most notably Scutellaria lateriflora (American skullcap) and Scutellaria baicalensis (Chinese skullcap). While both species share the name and belong to the same genus, they differ significantly in constituents and applications. American skullcap is primarily used for its gentle nervine and anxiolytic effects, while Chinese skullcap is valued for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective actions.
Scutellaria lateriflora is native to North America and has traditionally been used to calm the nervous system, ease muscle tension, and support sleep. It contains flavonoids such as baicalin, wogonin, and scutellarin, which contribute to its sedative, antispasmodic, and neuroprotective effects. It is commonly included in herbal formulas for insomnia, anxiety, nervous tension, PMS-related mood swings, and recovery from addiction or trauma.
In contrast, Scutellaria baicalensis, or Huang Qin, is one of the most important herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is used to clear heat and dry dampness, making it effective in conditions involving inflammation, infection, or liver heat. It has shown antiviral, antibacterial, and antitumor properties in both traditional and modern clinical applications. Its flavonoid-rich root is frequently used for respiratory infections, gastrointestinal inflammation, hepatitis, and allergic responses.
Historical Use:
In North American herbal traditions, American skullcap was widely used by Indigenous peoples and later adopted by 19th-century Eclectic physicians. It was referred to as "mad-dog weed" for its historical use in treating rabies, though this application is now obsolete. More commonly, it was used as a nervine tonic, prescribed for hysteria, irritability, epilepsy, and general nervous exhaustion. Its ability to gently soothe without causing grogginess made it a favorite among herbalists treating anxiety, stress-induced insomnia, and neuralgia.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Scutellaria baicalensis has been used for over 2,000 years. It was mentioned in classical texts such as the Shennong Bencao Jing, and commonly paired with herbs like Coptis chinensis and Phellodendron in formulas to treat hot, damp, or toxic conditions. It was also employed in febrile illnesses and was considered particularly effective at calming inflammation in the liver, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. Its name “Huang Qin” translates to “yellow gold,” a reference to both its color and high value.
In modern herbal practice, both types of skullcap continue to hold distinct but important roles. American skullcap is commonly used in stress-relief and sleep formulas, while Chinese skullcap is found in liver-support, immune, and inflammation-regulating supplements. Together, they represent two powerful traditions—nervous system support in the West and systemic inflammation and infection management in the East.
Skullcap is used for these health conditions
Anxiety (Traditional)
Anxiety Disorders (Traditional)
Insomnia (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
skullcap is used to support these body systems
Adrenal Glands (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
GABA (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Nerves (Traditional)
Parasympathetic Nervous System (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Serotonin (Traditional)
Specific Neurotransmitters (Traditional)
Sympathetic Nervous System (Traditional)
