SCULLCAP (Scutellaria lateriflora) aka - Mad Dogweed, Helmet Flower, Madweed

The popular and generic name is derived from the Latin, ‘scutella’ meaning a small dish, referring to the shape of an appendage to the flower, which resembles a cap in its appearance. Scullcap was also given the common name of ‘Mad Dogweed’ since many years ago it was considered to be a remedy for rabies. Scullcap calms the nervous system without narcotic properties, quiets the person and often brings about, natural sleep. Many herbalists will tell you that Scullcap is the best nervine. It acts through the cerebrospinal centers and sympathetic nervous system to control most nervous irritations. It is an effective herb to ease the problems associated with drug and alcohol withdrawal and drug use. It has detoxification properties that tend to lessen the severity of such withdrawal symptoms as delirium tremors. It is well noted for its abilities in spasmodic afflictions such as St. Vitus’ Dance, epilepsy; etc., acting to quiet the nerves.