Herb of the week: Skullcap

 Skullcap: The herb that helps you to relax and drift off to sleep 

General Correspondences

• Elements: Water and Air
• Planets: Moon, Saturn, Mercury, Neptune, Pluto
• Astrology: Gemini and Virgo
• Energy: Feminine/Receptive
• Chakra: Crown 

Skullcap, scientifically known as Scutellaria lateriflora, is a perennial herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae) native to North America. It typically grows in wetland areas, reaching heights of 1-3 feet with square stems, lance-shaped leaves, and small, tubular blue-purple flowers that bloom in summer. The name “skullcap” derives from the flower’s resemblance to a helmet or cap, and it’s also called mad-dog skullcap due to historical folklore associating it with treatments for rabies.

This plant has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples and herbalists for its calming effects on the body and mind.

Medicinal Properties

Skullcap is primarily valued in herbal medicine as a nervine tonic, meaning it supports and nourishes the nervous system.  It is commonly used to alleviate anxiety, insomnia, and nervous tension, often in combination with other sedative herbs.   Traditional uses include inducing sleep, relieving nervousness, and easing symptoms of conditions like epilepsy.  Modern herbalists recommend it for promoting emotional well-being and relaxation during times of stress or distress. 

Research and anecdotal evidence suggest skullcap may help reduce inflammation, provide relief from muscle spasms, and stimulate blood flow, particularly in the pelvic region.   It’s often prepared as a tea, tincture, or capsule. However, it’s important to note that while American skullcap (S. lateriflora) focuses on nervous system support, the related Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) is used differently, such as for diarrhea and inflammation in traditional Chinese medicine.  Always consult a healthcare provider before use, as it can interact with medications and may cause side effects like drowsiness.

Magical and Folklore Properties

In magical traditions, skullcap is revered for its protective and calming energies, often incorporated into spells, rituals, and charms.

Associated with the element of water and the planet Saturn, it’s used in witchcraft, Hoodoo, Voodoo, and Wicca for binding oaths, vows, and commitments, making it a staple in fidelity spells to promote loyalty in relationships.   Folklore links it to protection against madness, evil spirits, jinxes, hexes, and the evil eye, drawing from its historical name and uses. 

 

Practitioners may burn skullcap as incense for relaxation during meditation or rituals, or carry it in sachets for emotional restoration after magical workings or trials.   It’s also employed in love magic to foster peace and harmony, or in exorcism rites to ward off negative influences.  In some traditions, combining it with herbs of similar properties enhances spells for mental clarity and nervous system nourishment.  These uses stem from folk magic and should be approached as cultural or spiritual practices rather than proven effects.