Scutellaria Lateriflora. (Skullcap.)

Preparation.—Prepare a tincture from the fresh herb, gathered whilst in flower, ℥viij. to Alcohol 76° Oj. Dose, from gtt. j. to gtts. xx.

We have here another remedy that loses its medical properties by drying, until by age they are entirely dissipated. I have seen specimens furnished physicians by the drug trade that were wholly worthless—no wonder they were disappointed in its action.

The Scutellaria exerts a direct influence upon the cerebro-spinal centers, controlling irritation. It is possible that it may also exert a tonic influence, favoring nutrition. It has been employed with success in chorea, convulsions, epilepsy, mania, etc., and especially in hysteria, monomania, and that undefined condition that we call "nervousness." I value the remedy highly, but only recommend it when prepared from the fresh plant as above.

Specific Medication and Specific Medicines, 1870, was written by John M. Scudder, M.D.