Description:   A perennial herb, Scullcap grows wild in a good portion of the US & Canada, reaching a height of about 2 feet with an erect, many-branched stem with pink to blue flowers on one side.  Harvest the aerial parts in summer from 3-4 year old plants.  The name comes from the shape of the flowers, which reminded some of monks' skull caps.

Main constituents:  Flavonoids (scutellarin), Tannins, bitter Iridoids (catalpol), Volatile Oil, Minerals 

Properties:  Antispasmodic,  High Blood Pressure, Nervous Tension, Overanxiety

Uses:  Use an infusion of the aerial parts to treat the above conditions.  It was formerly considered a remedy for rabies (hydrophobia), hence the name Mad Dog.

Safety Considerations:  None found for Skullcap.  However, beware of Germander herb being represented as Skullcap!  It can cause liver toxicity. 

Magical:

Folk Names:   Blue Pimpernel, Quaker Bonnet, Hoodwort

Gender:  coming soon

Planet:  coming soon

Powers:  Fidelity, Commitment, Love, Peace

Uses:  Promotes Peace & Relaxation.  Protects spouse from suitors.

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