Scullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora), sometimes spelled skullcap, and also known as American skullcap, is an herb that has sometimes been presumed to be effective for hysteria, nervous tension, epilepsy, chorea, and other psychological disorders. Although some have presumed that it may be effective as a hypnotic.
American skullcap has been shown to boost mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety,by stimulating gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that helps calm nerves .Studies indicate that it has powerful antiviral and antibacterial effects. Furthermore, this extract showed better antibacterial effects than colistin, a common antibiotic.
Notably, baicalin, a flavonoid antioxidant in both American and Chinese skullcap, has demonstrated powerful anticancer effects and may help combat oxidative stress.
