Mad Dog seems to be the most common name for this herb in American literature.
While this herb has been used for a wide variety of ailments captured in the "For" section, it is primarily marketed as a solution for the nervous system - anxiety, depression, tension, migraines, stress relief, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual discomfort
Photos (Click to enlarge)
Judy Gallagher [CC BY 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)]
USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab from Beltsville, Maryland, USA [Public domain]
Other Names: Mad Dog Skullcap • Hoodwort • American Skullcap • European Skullcap • Hood Wort • Blue Pimpernel • Mad Dog Weed • Mad Weed
Plant Family: Labiatae
S. lateriflora is a popular herb used by Native Americans. It is indigenous to North America and cultivated in Europe.
The name skullcap came from the blue flowers that looks like the medieval European soldier helmets.
The name Mad Dog came about when it became well known for treating rabies in 19th century America.13
Skullcap is a part of the mint family. People allergic to mint should also avoid this herb.
The flower color range from pink to blue.
It is a perennial reaching one to thee feet high with flowers that bloom July to .August.
Species
There are many species of Scutellaria. The following are the most popular in plant based medicine and can be confused with each other.
Scutellaria lateriflora(American Skullcap) is used as a mild relaxant, anxiety, stress, and convulsions and may protect against alzheimer's disease. This is NOT a substitute for S. baicalensis.
Scutellaria Galericulata (Eurpean Skullcap) has similar effects as S. lateriflora, but is said to be less effective
Scutellaria Minor(Eurpean Skullcap) has similar effects as S. lateriflora, but is said to be less effective
Scutellaria baicalensis (Baical Skullcap, 黄芩) is Huang Qin. This is NOT a substitute.
Scutellaria barbata (Barbat Skullcap, 半枝莲) is Ban Zhi Lian. It is used to clear heat, reduce inflammation, reduce toxins, and invigorate blood. This is NOT a substitute.
Growth
Scutellaria lateriflora is in the USDA Plant Database. Drill down via USDA Interactive Map:
Blue Skullcap USDA Plant Database
Blue Skullcap USDA Plant Database
USA: Scutellaria lateriflora is available in the wild
USDA Zones: 6-9
Native: USA
Habitats: Damp places, meadows, ditches, pond sides from Connecticut south to Florida and Texas.26
Properties, Actions, Indications, etc. Category: Calm Spirit Nourishing
English: Blue Skullcap Pharmaceutical: Folium Scutellariae Lateriflora
Information in this post came from many sources, including class notes, practitioners, websites, webinars, books, magazines, and editor's personal experience. While the original source often came from historical Chinese texts, variations may result from the numerous English translations. Always consult a doctor prior to using these drugs. The information here is strictly for educational purposes.
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