Skullcap "toxicity".

Date: Thu, 28 Sep 1995 12:04:45 -0700
Sender: HERB.TREARNPC.EGE.EDU.TR
From: Howie Brounstein <howieb.TELEPORT.COM>
Subject: Careful with Skullcap

>And BE CAREFUL WITH SKULLCAP!

I have never seen a bad reaction to Skullcap, except perhaps the toxicity scare that came from impure skullcap cut with a toxic herb. Using wildcrafted and organically grown skullcap that was definately pure skullcap, I have heard of only one person whose body didn't react well to its effect, just yesterday as a matter of fact. Although I'm sure not everyone's chemistry or constition suggests skullcap use, I have seen many more people react adversely to valerian root.

I feel Valerian should be used very carefully the first time someone takes to to see if they're "allergic" or have the wrong constition. I wouldn't put skullcap in this category.

Of course, we should all be careful of where we get our herbs, and should firmly trust the knowledge and integrity any wildcrafter or company that distributes wild herbs.