Background

• Scullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is native to the United States.
• Traditionally, scullcap has been used as a relaxant, and it is well-known for its antispasmodic actions. Native Americans traditionally used scullcap extracts as sedatives and diuretics.
• Although early evidence suggests that it may have antidepressant or anti-anxiety properties, there is not enough available evidence in humans to support the use of scullcap for any medical condition.

References

• Bruseth, S and Enge, A. [Scullcap--liver damage. Mistletoe hepatitis]. Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen 8-10-1992;112(18):2389-2390.
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• Gafner, S, Bergeron, C, Batcha, LL, et al. Inhibition of [3H]-LSD binding to 5-HT7 receptors by flavonoids from Scutellaria lateriflora. J Nat Prod 2003;66(4):535-537.
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• Takeshita, K, Saisho, Y, Kitamura, K, et al. Pneumonitis induced by ou-gon (scullcap). Intern.Med. 2001;40(8):764-768.
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• Wolfson, P and Hoffmann, DL. An investigation into the efficacy of Scutellaria lateriflora in healthy volunteers. Altern Ther Health Med 2003;9(2):74-78.
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