blue pimpernel

skullcap

Herbal medicine
A perennial herb that contains flavonoids, glucosides (scutellarein), bitter principles, iridoids, tannins and volatile oil; it is antispasmodic, digestive, sedative and a nerve tonic, and has been used for anxiety, depression, headaches, insomnia, premenstrual syndrome exacerbated by stress, and withdrawal from substance abuse. It was formerly used for rabies and seizures.
 
Toxicity
Skullcap should not be used when driving or when operating heavy machinery, as it causes drowsiness; in excess, skullcap may cause convulsions.

Segen's Medical Dictionary. © 2012 Farlex, Inc. All rights reserved.