Sunday, January 5, 2014

Skullcap Headache Tea

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is a member of the mint family, and grows in shady areas near streams. It's a "nervine" herb, which means it acts as a tonic for the nervous system. Skullcap is a versatile nervine and it's useful for a whole range of disorders related to the nervous system including headaches, stress, menstrual tension and insomnia. To receive the full benefits of skullcap, it's recommended to use it over an extended period of time and in adequate dosages. Here's a recipe for Skullcap Headache Tea. The ingredients are pretty basic, which makes this an easy one to whip up when you feel a headache coming on.

Skullcap Tea for Headaches and Nervous Stress (Rosemary Gladstar's Recipe)

2 parts Skullcap
2 parts Lemon Balm
1/2 part Feverfew
4 parts Chamomile

Prepare as an infusion. Drink at least a quarter cup every half hour until the headache symptoms are gone.


I wrapped the ingredients in cheesecloth and secured the bundle with twine. I like this reusable teabag method. 




I chose to make my skullcap tea as a solar infusion. I let it steep in a nearby garden for about 4 hours in the sunlight.



The color difference before and after the infusion was made. It's not a very dark infusion. This tea was very mild and easy to drink. 


And this little guy just got to hang out and watch.