Skullcap is a member of the mint family that will grow well in a moist corner of your garden. American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is a perennial plant native to North America that has been used medicinally for centuries. It is commonly used to help reduce stress, relieve headaches, and improve sleep. In addition to its medicinal benefits, its lush green foliage and delicate blue flowers will brighten your environment.
Benefits of Skullcap
There are two common types of skullcap, the American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) and the Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis). Both have medicinal properties but are used to treat different conditions. For this article, we will stick to the American skullcap. American skullcap is what herbalists call a hypnotic nervine. It works to soothe the nervous system and has been used for more than 200 years in the treatment of insomnia, anxiety, headaches, and convulsions due to its sedative effects. In addition, it is a trophorestorative, which means it helps to rebuild and restore the nervous system enabling it to be more resistant to stress. Skullcap also helps to lower blood pressure due to the way it relaxes the nervous system.
The leaves, stems, and flowers are the parts of the plants that are used medicinally. Typically the plants are harvested while it is blooming and at their most potent and then dried for later use. It is found to be more effective as an herbal tea than a tincture, however, the hypnotic effects will be deactivated with boiling water, so it is best to allow the water to cool to about 185-190°F before applying it to the plant. Skullcap tea can be used to help relaxation and promote good sleep. As with any natural remedy, contact your medical professional before ingesting. Skullcap should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
How to Grow Skullcap
Skullcap grows best in zones 2 to 9. This plant's native habitats are forests and marshes. Keeping that in mind, the ideal location for growing skullcap will be an area that is cool, partially shady, and moist. It needs rich soil with lots of organic matter. The plants reach 1-2 feet in height and will spread quickly via runners. If you do not want it to take over your garden, take precautions.
Skullcap seeds should be sown in the fall so that they go through the cold and wet of winter for germination in the spring. If sowing seeds in spring, you can cold-stratify them in the refrigerator for several weeks before planting. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and press them in gently. They should germinate in 14 to 21 days. Thin seedlings to about 12 inches apart.
This plant should not need any fertilizer. Avoid excess nitrogen (such as what occurs in manure fertilizer) as it can cause too much leaf growth making the plant stems droop and possibly break.
Skullcap is resistant to most pests and diseases. Powdery mildew is probably the only issue you may encounter, and you can treat this by pruning your patch to allow good air circulation around the plants. Always water the base of the plants rather than overhead so excess water does not collect on the leaves.
When it comes time to harvest, try to only harvest one-third of the patch. Cut the stems near the base and then hang them to dry in a warm, dark, dry place.
An Important Part of Your Survival Garden
Skullcap is a valuable plant to include in any survival garden. Its potent relaxing properties will be an asset to your home apothecary. This perennial plant is simple to grow and prolific as long as it is provided with rich soil and lots of moisture. It is perfect for that shady, damp part of your garden. This herb earns its keep by attracting pollinators and providing you with beauty and medicinal benefits.
