Scutellaria lateriflora is called by the names Hoodwort, Madog Skullcap, Helmet Flower, and most often just Skullcap. It is a herb growing native in North America and well known by the Cherokee and other Native American tribes. Nowadays it has been cultivated in other parts of the World, too.

Skullcap has been used a lot in alternative medicine. for example because of its anti-inflammatory and sedative properties. It is used e.g. to treat throat infections, headaches, and to induce sleep.

Scutellaria lateriflora also calms down nervous system and muscles. Pregnant women should avoid using Skullcap, since it can induce a miscarriage.