Skullcap is also known as Scutellaria lateriflora and belongs to the mint family. This herb is a perennial plant that is native to the United States and can grow up to three feet tall. Skullcap grows readily in the moist woodlands of North America and has blue flowers that bloom in the late summer between July and September.
The aerial--above-ground--parts of the plant are used medicinally. This herb may provide a number of health benefits during pregnancy, although you should not use herbal therapy to replace conventional medicine. Consult with your health care provider prior to taking skullcap during pregnancy.
Properties
Skullcap is an antispasmodic and nervine tonic. According to Medical Herbalism, this herb can help tonify your central nervous system as well as promote rest and relaxation. Skullcap has a mildly bitter quality and can have a sedative effect. Although this herb has a calming effect, it generally does not cause excessive sleepiness if you take it during the day. This remedy has antispasmodic and anticonvulsant properties and may provide relief for general nervousness or excessive stress.
Eases Insomnia
According to Linda White, M.D., skullcap may be used if you are experiencing insomnia during pregnancy. Insomnia is most likely to occur in the later weeks of your pregnancy, when your baby is getting larger and you generally feel more uncomfortable. Skullcap is high in calcium, which can act as a natural tranquilizer to help soothe your nerves. The calcium in skullcap may help reduce uncomfortable muscle or leg cramps that can also occur during pregnancy and interfere with your sleep.
Prepares Your Body for Birth
During the last weeks of your pregnancy, your uterus begins to prepare for labor and birth. You can take herbs like skullcap to help your body prepare for this important event. According to Gaia Garden Herbals, skullcap can help strengthen and tone your uterus, so it functions more effectively during labor. Skullcap has a hypertonic action on your uterine muscles during your third trimester.
Reduces Stress and Tension
Skullcap may help reduce the stress and tension you might feel when preparing for childbirth. According to Total Health magazine, the nervine relaxant properties of skullcap can help reduce nervous tension and ease your stress. Furthermore, this herb's antispasmodic properties may also help relieve stress-related headaches and calm feelings of anxiety.
Preparations
You can find skullcap in a number of preparations at your local health food or vitamin and supplement store. One of the most convenient preparations of skullcap is in capsule or tablet form. You can also find the raw, dried form of this herb that you can boil in water and drink the infusion. Skullcap also comes as a liquid extract, tincture, or herbal tea. Consult with an herbal specialist to ensure you are purchasing a good quality supplement from a trusted manufacturer.
References
- "HerbalGram: Skullcap;" Gayle Engels; 2009
- "Medical Herbalism: Scullcap;" Paul Bergner; 2002
- Childbirth Solutions, Inc.: Wise Use of Herbs and Vitamins During Pregnancy
- Gaia Garden Herbals: Herbs for Pregnancy and Childbirth
- "Total Health: Easing Stress-Related Tension and Anxiety;" Kristin Cook; 1999
