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Herbs & Supplements
Hoodwort
Scientific Name: Scullcap
Other Names: American Scullcap, Blue Pimpernel, Common Scullcap, Helmet Flower, Mad-Dog Weed, Quaker Bonnet, Scutellaria lateriflora, Skullcap
Who is this for?
Uses
Note: American scullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is different from a related plant called Baikal scullcap or Chinese scullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis), which may be used to treat infections and cancer. In addition, American scullcap sometimes has been found to be contaminated with similar plants, such as germander, that are more likely than American scullcap to cause serious side effects.
At one time, American scullcap was used widely as a weak sedative. It was included in tonics to treat anxiety, insomnia, and nervousness. It was also thought to relieve muscle cramps, so it was often included in preparations for menstrual cramps and other "female complaints". However, very little scientific evidence exists to support any medical properties for American scullcap, and its use has diminished greatly over the last several decades, as medications that are more effective have been developed. A very small recent study of healthy adults does seem to show that American scullcap has some calming effects, but the results of that study are questionable. While American scullcap may still be taken to relieve anxiety and produce sleepiness; other herbals, non-prescription products, and prescription drugs have been proven to produce better results with less chance of side effects.
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Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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Who is this for? 
