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 and dried 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.

Soothing scullcap tea made with dried scullcap herb is popular for stress relief — not its taste. Although related to mint, the herb tastes bitter and is often combined with other flavors. In small amounts, scullcap may cause drowsiness.