Habitat and Range
Skullcap is a small herb that can grow unnoticed in dry or moist, but generally gravelly areas throughout the Sierra Nevada. Scutellaria spp mainly occur at elevations below 7000 ft and are restricted to the western slope of the Sierra.
Physical Description
Like all others of its family, this Labiata has square stems and opposite leaves. Unlike most Mints however, Skullcap has a dinstinct single axillary flower (sometimes 2 or 3) with a crested upper lip and a 3-lobed lower lip. The middle lobe of the lower lip is larger than the adjacent lobes. The flower grows out of a box-like calyx and extends to almost the length of the leaf. The color varies from blue to purple to white depending on the species. The leaves are generally petioled and dentate, but some are sessile and entire (above - S. bolanderi).
Food Uses
This plant is considered toxic if eaten in quantity. It is best known for its medicinal qualities. Do NOT eat this plant.
Medicinal Uses
This herb has the ability to mildly but effectively sedate those troubled with anxiety or nervous tension. It has been deemed one of the most effective herbal sedatives available. The active flavonoid compound, scutellarin, is an antispasmodic and sedative that has traditionally been used to ward off epileptic seizures, hysteria, anxiety, convulsions, and even symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
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