SKULLCAP
(Scutellaria lateriflora)
blue skullcap, mad-dog-weed, helmet flower
Description:
A perennial with fibrous, yellow rootstock producing a branching
stem, 1-3 ft. high, with opposite, ovate, serrate leaves that
come to a point. Axillary, pale purple or blue 2-lipped, hooded
flowers are in 1-sided racemes from leaf axils. Eastern, central
U.S. in rich woods, moist thickets.
Medicinal:
Antispasmodic, diuretic, sedative, tonic. An infusion of the herb
is good for spasms, convulsions, nervous conditions, such as excitability,
insomnia, restlessness, rheumatism, said to be effective against
rabies, thus mad-dog skullcap. Steep 1 tsp. dried plant in 1 cup
of water, 30 min. Take 3-4 times a day.
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