Skullcap (Glidkruid)
Skullcap, known as glidkruid in Dutch, is a traditional herb from the mint family that has been used for generations. Depending on the species, it is also known as blue skullcap, baikal skullcap or by its Latin name Scutellaria. Find out about the origins, species, constituents and uses of this distinctive herb here.
By Lisanne, last updated: 12-06-2025.
Contents
- Our favourite Skullcap supplement
- What is Skullcap (Glidkruid)?
- The origins of Skullcap
- The constituents of Skullcap
- Different species of Skullcap
- Sources
Our favourite Skullcap supplement
What is Skullcap (Glidkruid)?
Skullcap is the English name for plants in the genus Scutellaria, which belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). In the Netherlands, these plants are known as glidkruid. They stand out for their purple or blue flowers and are traditionally used in herbal medicine. The most extensively studied species is Scutellaria lateriflora, also known as American skullcap or blue skullcap. There is also Scutellaria baicalensis, native to East Asia and known as baikal skullcap.
The origins of Skullcap
Skullcap has a long history. Scutellaria lateriflora is native to North America and was traditionally used by Indigenous peoples such as the Cherokee. They regarded it as a ‘women’s herb’, intended to support menstruation and childbirth. (source)
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Skullcap became popular among American and British herbalists. The plant was included in the first American pharmacopoeia (Extractum Scutellariae Fluidum, 1860) and had a wide range of uses in folk medicine. (source)
Today, Skullcap grows in various regions, including the United States, Canada, Mexico and even Europe and Australia. Interest in this plant has grown in recent years, partly thanks to renewed scientific research.
The constituents of Skullcap
The strength of Scutellaria lies in its combination of bioactive plant compounds, particularly flavonoids. The main compounds are:
- Baicalin: a flavonoid that binds to the benzodiazepine site of the GABAA receptor.
- Baicalein: the aglycone form of Baicalin.
- GABA: an important neurotransmitter.
- Glutamine: an important amino acid found in high concentrations.
(source)
Different species of Skullcap
Of the more than 360 species in the genus Scutellaria, two in particular have been well studied:
- Scutellaria lateriflora (American skullcap): the widely used North American species. The above-ground parts are the main parts harvested during flowering. (source)
- Scutellaria baicalensis (Baikal skullcap): native to China and rich in flavonoids such as Baicalin and wogonin. This species has a wide range of uses in traditional Chinese medicine.
Sources
- The use of Scutellaria lateriflora: A pilot survey amongst herbal medicine practitioners
- Skullcap Scutellaria lateriflora L.: An American nervine
- Phytochemical and biological analysis of Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora L.): A medicinal plant with anxiolytic properties
- American Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora): A Randomised, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Crossover Study of its Effects on Mood in Healthy Volunteers
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Interest in Skullcap, particularly Scutellaria lateriflora, stems from its long history of use in Western and North American herbal medicine, among other traditions. Today, many people use it as part of a personal ritual or alongside a balanced lifestyle.
Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) has been used for a long time and is described in Literatuur as a herb with a favourable safety profile. In the Botanical Safety Handbook, it has a Class 1 rating, which means it is generally considered safe when used correctly at the recommended dosages. As with all herbs, always choose a pure product from a reliable source and consult an expert if you have any concerns, are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.
When good-quality products are used correctly, side effects of skullcap are rare. In the Literatuur, mild reactions such as tiredness or stomach complaints are reported only occasionally, usually at higher doses or with prolonged use.
It is important to note that Skullcap is sometimes confused with or adulterated with other plants, such as Teucrium species, which can be harmful. At Morgen is Nu, you always choose verified, authentic products without unwanted additives.
There is no official recommended daily amount for Skullcap. The dosage depends on the form, the concentration of the extract and your personal circumstances.
Always follow the instructions on the specific product label or the advice of a qualified professional. Would you like to know what dosage is right for you? Feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help.
Most health claims currently relate to vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. Discussions about herbs and botanicals have been ongoing for years. Various on-hold claims have been submitted for these. They are currently awaiting authorisation by the European Commission. These claims may therefore currently only be used if there is scientific evidence to support the health effect.
Herbs can have an effect on the body and may, in some cases, interact with medication or other food supplements.
You are responsible for your own use and combination of herbal supplements. Consult a doctor or pharmacist if you take medication or have health concerns. The use of herbs during pregnancy or breastfeeding is generally not recommended due to insufficient evidence of their safety. If you want to take several herbal supplements at the same time and are unsure, consult a healthcare professional.