Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
Photo: Pixabay
- Mental
- 2 conditions
- Licensed photo
Overview
Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is a perennial, up to about 2 ft (60 cm), with branching stems, lanceolate leaves, and small pink to blue flowers.
Safety & precautions
Liver injury: LiverTox reports that skullcap has been named as a possible cause in rare cases of liver injury, at least one ending in acute liver failure. Many cases involved multi-herb products, and some products turned out to be adulterated with germander, an herb LiverTox identifies as a cause of liver injury. Buy only from reputable sources and stop if you notice yellowing skin or eyes or dark urine. Professional Guidance: High doses or combining with other sedatives warrant caution.
Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.
Drug interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
Native to North America, skullcap grows in damp soils and near riverbanks. Propagated from seeds or root division in spring, it’s harvested in summer when in flower. The aerial parts are used (flowers, leaves, and stems).
Sources
The interaction notes and the statements on this page that name a source were written by HerbMate from these references, which were last checked in October 2026. They are summaries, not medical advice; ask a pharmacist about your own medicines.
Traditionally used for
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Frequently asked questions
What safety cautions apply to Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)?
Liver injury: LiverTox reports that skullcap has been named as a possible cause in rare cases of liver injury, at least one ending in acute liver failure. Many cases involved multi-herb products, and some products turned out to be adulterated with germander, an herb LiverTox identifies as a cause of liver injury. Buy only from reputable sources and stop if you notice yellowing skin or eyes or dark urine. Professional Guidance: High doses or combining with other sedatives warrant caution.
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