(Scutellaria galericulata)
extracted by tincture in distilled water and food grade alcohol
Anodyne / Antipyretic / Antispasmodic / Nervine / Sedative
Plant Description / History:
Skullcap gets its Latin name “scutella” (a little dish) fromt he lid of the calyx which is lipped and looks like a helmet. This perennial plant grows all over the world in temperate regions, mountain and tropical areas, and is abundant in the U.S. There are about 90 species belonging to the genus.
Constituents-Chemicals & Nutrients:
Lignin, tannin, essential oil, flavonoids (scutellarin), scutellonin, bitter (scutellaine) palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, phenols, tannin, calcium, potassium, magnesium and B vitamins.
Indications:
Skullcap is one of the best nervines known. The tincture provides a deep refreshing sleep without hang overs, helpful for insomnia. Also used for delirium tremens, convulsions, epilepsy, shaking palsy, hysteria, nervous headache, myalgia, rheumatism, or neuralgia from spinal or peripheral nerve irritability without organic causes. The plant tincture has also been used for rabies, hence the name “mad dog skullcap”. It may be used as a treatment for the nerve pain associated with shingles, before eruptions.
Adult Dosage:
Analgesic for Pain - 30 - 40 drops three to four times a day until symptoms subside.
Insomnia / Sedative - 20 - 30 drops in a cup of warm water right before bedtime.
Nerve Pain from Shingles - 20 - 30 drops three to four times a day until symptoms subside.
Epileptic Seizures - 40 drops during the aura phase of epilepsy may prevent a seizure. 40 drops in warm water before bedtime may prevent petit mal while sleeping.
Warnings:
Because Skullcap may promote suppressed menses, do not take this tincture if you are pregnant, breast feeding or planning to become pregnant.
Note: This information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare provider. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of this extract is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare provider before taking this tincture.