Scullcap

Scutellaria lateriflora

Also known as Blue skullcap, Hoodwort, Virginian skullcap, mad-dog skullcap. This herb is a hardy perennial native to North America. The form is upright and usually around 20-45cm tall. It is a wetland loving species and grow along rivers and creeks. The flowers are in pairs and on the same side of the stem. The name 'lareiflora' means having the flowers appear along the side of the plant rather than at the top of the stem. It is used as a nerve tonic, and is said to calm and nourish the nervous system. When taken regularly as a tea, it is said to slowly improve the tone of the nervous tissues. The common uses include releif of nervous tension, anxiety and nerve pain.