SCULLCAP. 253 



alkaloids than either of above, and for this reason 

 preferred by makers of alkaloids and plasters. 



Preparations Fluid extract U.S. P. : Dose, 1-5 

 drops. Powdered extract U.S. P.: Dose, 1-5 grains. 



Distinctive character Rhizome knotty, about -f 

 inch in diameter, with closely-approximated, large, cup- 

 shaped remains of annual stems ; sometimes ending in 

 a piece of tapering, cylindrical root, but usually con- 

 sisting of the rhizome only. Fracture short. 



SCULLCAP. Scutellaria lateriflora, Linn 



N.O. Labicitz. 

 Syn. Skullcap, Madweed. 



Part used Herb. 



Action Tonic, nervine, antispasmodic, slightly 

 astringent. Is one of the finest nervines ever discovered, 

 and may be prescribed wherever disorders of the 

 nervous system exist. In hysteria, convulsions, hydro- 

 phobia, St. Vitus dance, rickets, &c., its action is 

 invaluable. Many cases of hydrophobia are known to 

 have been cured by this remedy alone, while it may be 

 regarded as a specific in St. Vitus dance. The dose of 

 an infusion of i ounce to a pint of boiling water is 

 half a teacupful frequently. 



Preparations Powdered herb : Dose, drachm. 

 Fluid extract : Dose, ^-i drachm. Solid extract : Dose, 

 5-10 grains. Scutellarin : Dose, 1-2 grains. 



Scutellaria. integrifolia, Linn., 5. galericulata, Linn., 

 (European Scullcap) possess similar properties and are 

 often used. 



Distinctive character Herb with square stems, 

 opposite, cordate-lanceolate, shortly-stalked leaves with 

 a tapering apex. Flowers blue, with a helmet-shaped 



