Scutellaria lateriflora

*Scutellaria lateriflora*, commonly known as American skullcap, is a perennial herb native to North America traditionally used in herbal medicine for its sedative, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant properties. Its therapeutic effects are primarily attributed to a diverse profile of flavonoids, including baicalin, baicalein, wogonin, and oroxylin A. Recent clinical and preclinical research has explored its efficacy in treating primary insomnia, managing stress-induced cortisol release, and reducing gingival inflammation when used in combination with other botanical extracts. Additionally, its constituent flavonoids have demonstrated potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective activities, with investigations extending into oncology (e.g., breast cancer and leukemia) and bone health. It is often administered as an aqueous or hydroethanolic extract in dietary supplements or homeopathic preparations.

Other names

American skullcapblue skullcapMad-dog skullcapScutellaria lateriflora L.