Blue Skullcap or as it also commonly known, Mad Dog Weed, (apparently for curing Rabies) and as it is scientifically known as Scutellaria lateriflora, is a member of the Laminaceae or Mint family. A North American wildflower found growing in wetlands, marshes, meadows, and other wet habitats. Traditionally, Skullcap is best known for its excellent nervine properties. It is a calmative and helps relaxation, so helping in cases of anxiety, insomnia, stress related conditions, and also in anorexia, panic attacks and depression. It is also said to help in ‘restless leg syndrome’, and I will be delighted in letting Helen know that it is used for St. Vitus Dance, a condition that she is convinced she suffers from. It has also been suggested that it could be useful for Fibromyalgia. Native American Tribes have used Skullcap for centuries to treat menstrual disorders, nervousness, digestive and kidney problems. Drinking Skullcap Tea was said to promote menstruation. It is also magical and can be used for exorcism, and to protect the practitioner on magical journeys.
It goes without saying that if you're pregnant (or are under the doctor for anything) caution should be exercised with herbal decoctions.
