Skull Cap is a member of the mint family and a native of North America, where it thrives in moist woodlands. The species name lateriflora refers to the fact that the flowers only grow on one side of the stem. In pagan handfasting ceremonies, a cup of Skull Cap was passed when couples wanted to make vows that extend beyond this life. The Scullcaps, belonging to the genus Scutellaria, are herbaceous, slender, rarely shrubby, labiate plants, scattered over different parts of the world, in temperate regions and tropical mountains, being especially abundant in America. Skull Cap relaxes states of nervous tension while simultaneously renewing and reviving the central nervous system. Skull Cap has traditionally been used in combination with Valerian as a mild sedative for anxiety. It has also been used in patented medicines for "female problems." It has a specific use in the treatment of seizure and hysterical states, as well as epilepsy. This herb may also be used in all exhausted or depressed conditions, and can be used in the easing of pre-menstrual tension. Primary chemical constituents of Skull Cap include lignan, tannin, essential oil, flavonoids (scutellarin), scutellonin, isoscutellarin, wogonin, baicalin, baicalein, beta-sitosterol, bitter (scutellaine) palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, phenols, tannin, calcium, B vitamins. Chinese research has shown that extracts of Skull Cap are active against a range of bacteria, and that the herb is an effective antiviral agent to treat the flu. It is often prescribed for acute tonsillitis and strep throat. The constituent baicalin also appears to inhibit tumor growth and has strong anti-inflammatory activity. Both baicalin and baicalein are powerful antioxidants, protecting red blood cells from free radical damage better than vitamin E can. They both show some promise in preventing the oxidation of blood fats, although baicalein appears to be more active. Skull Cap has strong tonic, nervine and antispasmodic action, and is slightly astringent. This herb also aids sleep, improves circulation, strengthens heart muscles, increases blood clotting time, relieves muscle cramps, pain, spasms and stress. Skull Cap is useful in treating anxiety, fatigue, cardiovascular disease, headache, hyperactivity, nervous disorders and rheumatism. This botanical has also shown potential in treating barbiturate addiction and drug withdrawal. And finally, Skull Cap improves motor ability and impairment of the senses. Scutellarin is transformed by hydrolysis into scutellarein which helps stimulate the brain to produce more endorphins - this is said to enhance both awareness and calmness. |
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St. John's Wort is native to Europe. The parts of this plant most often used medicinally include the above ground portions. The name Saint John's Wort is said to be in honor of the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem who used this herb to treat battlefield wounds. Because the hypericin content produces a bright red hue, the herb is often associated with blood, and is often collected on June 24th, the feast day of John the Baptist. In the early 1900's, a beetle was introduced into the Pacific Northwest to keep this plant under control. Unfortunately, the effects of that action are greatly felt today, since the usefulness of this plant has led to great popularity. St. John's Wort is currently used to treat mild to moderate depression. This herb is most often noted as being astringent, diuretic, expectorant, nervine, vermifuge, and vulnerary. The primary chemical constituents of St. John's Wort include hypericin, pseudohypericin, hyperforing, flavonoids, essential oil, carotene, vitamin C, tannin, and resin. Studies suggest that hypericin may have monoamine oxidase inhibiting properties, though this is not the only way that the herb works. St. John's Wort also appears to influence brain levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, and preliminary studies suggest that it may inhibit functioning of the neurotransmitter serotonin. It may take a couple of months of use before one experiences the full benefits of the herb's antidepressant properties. Saint John's Wort oil, made only from the fresh plant, is a beautiful shade of red and is used to treat bruises, burns, wounds, back pain, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, sunburn, tumors, herpes and nerve pain. St John's Wort also loosens phlegm relieving a variety of respiratory problems including bronchitis.
WARNING: St. John's Wort can have potentially dangerous interactions with some prescription drugs. Consult your physician before taking St. John's Wort if you are currently taking anticoagulants, oral contraceptives, anti-depressants, anti-seizure medications, drugs to treat HIV or prevent transplant rejection, or any other prescription drug. This product is not recommended for use if you are or could be pregnant unless a qualified health care provider tells you to use it. The product may not be safe for your developing baby. Please also review the FDA Public Health Advisory (02/10/00) - "Risk of Drug Interactions with St. John's Wort and Indinavir and Other Drugs." |
