The tested one
Tincture or extract from a tested brand
Testing helps confirm it's true skullcap and not a stand-in.
Good for: Sleep & stress
What variations of skullcap exist?
A mint-family herb traditionally used to calm nervous tension and support sleep. Research is limited, and product quality matters because some products have been contaminated. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.
For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult
Our top pick
Every form, in plain words
The tested one
Tincture or extract from a tested brand
Testing helps confirm it's true skullcap and not a stand-in.
Good for: Sleep & stress
The traditional one
Dried herb tea or capsules
Traditional, though strength varies.
Usually skip
- The risky bargain (Untested or bargain products)Some have been mixed with germander, an herb that can harm the liver.
Spotting a good one on the shelf
Look for
- Look for 'Tincture or extract from a tested brand' on the label (the tested one)
Watch out for
- No species name (Scutellaria lateriflora) listed
- No outside testing to confirm the herb
- Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis), which is a different herb with different uses
Check with your provider first if…
- Liver problems. Stop and get checked if you notice dark urine, yellow skin, or belly pain.
- Taking sedatives, sleep medicines, or anxiety medicines, or drinking alcohol
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.