Scullcap (also spelled skullcap) is found growing in meadows and thickets of eastern North America. The wiry, 2-foot native plant’s common name comes from the unique, helmet-like shape of its hooded, tubular flowers. When flowering in midsummer, the plant’s leaves and stems are wildharvested, dried and ground for herbal use.

Native American tribes originally used the wild herb to promote menstruation; only in the last few hundred years has scullcap become popular as a mild relaxant for treating anxiety, insomnia and tension. Some studies show that skullcap’s antioxidants may also help protect against neurological disorders.

Although related to mint, scullcap tastes bitter. Encapsulating the herb powder provides the same soothing effects and other potential benefits as teas made from dried scullcap herb — without the taste. In small amounts, scullcap may cause drowsiness; large amounts may cause more serious side effects.