Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) belongs to the mint family. This herb - also called 'mad dog' weed - is named after its blossoms, which have the shape of a human skull. The plant reaches a height of about 50 cm and is seen most at water sides and in swamp forests.

Skullcap is a relaxing herb that helps when feeling nervous. It could also be used to induce a mild high and it brings relief from fear, anxiousness and restlessness.

Effects

Skullcap tea gives a nice relaxing feeling and can be used before sleeping or to benefit meditation. Because the herb does not alter the intellectual power or concentration, it can also be used to help reducing anxiety at exams. Furthermore skullcap can be used for a soothing the head if under pressure. It may also helps reduce monthly menstrual pains and complaints.

Usage

To make tea take 25 grams of skullcap and steep in half a litre of hot water for 20 minutes, add sugar to taste. Drink 1 or 2 cups depending on the desired effect.

Warning

Skullcap may not be used in combination with medicines or tranquilizers. It is strong in itself, and the chemistry has yet to be identified.

Reviews

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Oct 16, 2010 SwBk said:
   
“First, Thanks AZARIUS for the super speedy and professional transaction! 5 Stars to you!!

My first impressions of this herb are not good ones. I made the mistake of smoking it, stems and sticks and what not included. The first hit almost ripped my lungs out! Then I took a portion and removed as many of the big stems and "wood" as I could, trying for just green leafs. Not an easy task with this grade that I received. (That was not a complaint, just a statement- received product looks just like the picture here on the site)

After extracting as much fine stuff as I wanted, I packed one bowl tight and enjoyed the sweet, woodsy taste. It was still pretty harsh, but manageable. I did enjoy the taste, though.
Pipe empty, I decided to go out into the fresh air and enjoy nature a bit. It was 1:30 in the morning and cold, 5.5°C. I had a T-Shirt and a sweater on and the cold didn't bother me. I felt slightly lightheaded, relaxed and content. I sat on a bench and smoked a (normal) cigarette, enjoying the light, cottony and slightly swollen feeling in my arms, hands and legs. A pleasant feeling.
I went back inside and just sat around, listening to an audio book, feeling very relaxed and without worries. No optics or dripping music notes. No laughing at a fuzzball on the floor. That wasn't my goal, anyway. But the contentedness was nice.

Smoking it is unpleasant (even if it does taste good) because it rips my throat and lungs apart. That's why only three stars. Tonight I'll make a tea, I have higher hopes for that.

Thanks again Azarius!”

Jul 7, 2008 holistic mama said:
     
“I use scullcap for menstrual cramps. I have severe cramps and the tea takes the edge off. As a bonus, if I have it before bed, it provides a very mild relaxing feeling that, while it's too mild to induce sleep, it certainly aids sleep.”

Mar 7, 2008 kamil said:
     
“me and a friend smoked it pure, thats how our smartshop advised it...
wel we had a laughkick that lasted 5 minutes and it was all about nothing... GOOD SHIT!!”