Chinese Skullcap

Scutellaria baicalensis

Chinese Skullcap

This herb is a member of the lamiaceae (mint) family and native to China. Its Pin yin name is Huang Qin and it is sometimes referred to as Baical Skullcap, or Scute. It is very bitter and has a cold energetic nature. In traditional Chinese Medicine this plant was used (almost always in combination with other plants or foods), to clear heat, dry damp, drain fire, and resolve toxins (it is used to support normal immune function). The roots are the preferred part and are collected in the spring and autumn with the outer cork and rootlets removed.