Skullcap: It's more than just a sleep remedy

Organic Fresh Skullcap Tincture

If you've ever drank herbal tea promoted for restful sleep or insomnia, then chances are that you are already somewhat familiar with skullcap. Skullcap is a common ingredient in herbal medicine for sleep support.

That's because it is a nervine relaxant and a mild sedative. When taking it for sleep support, it works best to drink as an infusion, such as a tea. Combine 2 - 4 teaspoons per 8 ounces of water and drink 1 hour before bed to promote sleep.

However, Skullcap is also an anti-spasmodic. This means it is effective for issues involving cramps and muscle spasms. It is an excellent choice for PMS symptoms that involve cramping and general muscle tension.

Have you ever fallen asleep only to be quickly awakend by a sudden muscle twitch or spasm? Skullcap can help eliminate this issue because of its anti-spasmodic properties.

Skullcap can be used as a nervine tonic in tincutre form. It has been n shown to relieve acute anxiety associated with overstimulation and long term stress. As a tincture, it works instantly to help stress related anxiety without causing drowsiness, lethargy or lack of mental clarity.

Skullcap is often referred to as Mad dog skullcap because it was though to cure Rabies in humans during the later part of the 18th century. This was due to the fact that a physician by the name for Dr. Van Derveveer convinced the general public that is Skullcap remedy was a miracle cure for humans infected with Rabies. He as later discredited but the nickname stuck around for a century or more.

*DO NOT USE SKULLCAP TO TREAT RABIES, GO TO THE CLOSEST EMERGENCY ROOM!

It is important to note that the Cherokee and wise women of the day knew that Skullcap was not a cure for Rabies. They did know that it helped with sleep, nervous system upset, muscle spasms and pain associated with PMS. The Cherokee also used it as an Emmenagogue to to brring on delayed menses.

CAUTION: Due to its Emmenagogue effects, Skullcap should not be ingested by women who are pregnant or trying to conceive.

Skullcap's spiritual attributes include Love, Fidelity and Peace. It was often worn or carried by women to protect their husbands against the charms of other women. In modern times, it still carries the same energy and can be added to teas to manifest these qualities within ourselves and others.

Latin Name for Skullcap: Skutellaria lateriflora

Common Names for Skullcap: Mad dog Skullcap, Madweed, Helmut Flower, Hoodwort, Quaker;s Bonnet, Blue Skullcap