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Scullcap (Scutellaria barbata), also known as Barbat Skullcap or Ban Zhi Lian in Traditional Chinese Medicine, is a potent wildcrafted herb used for centuries to support internal balance and resilience. At The Herbal Connection, we supply high-quality wildcrafted Scullcap from China in cut and sifted form, ideal for blending, decoction, or tincture use.

What Is Scutellaria barbata?

Scutellaria barbata is a flowering plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae) native to China and Southeast Asia. It has small purple-blue flowers and grows in moist, temperate climates. While it shares a common name with its American cousin Scutellaria lateriflora, this variety has unique traditional uses and a different phytochemical profile.

In Chinese herbal traditions, Ban Zhi Lian is considered a cooling, cleansing herb often used in formulations to support liver health, detoxification, and balance the body's internal fire.

Traditional Uses in Herbal Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Scullcap (Scutellaria barbata) is used to:

• Clear heat and support the liver

• Promote normal fluid balance and circulation

• Assist with detoxification and immune response

• Support overall balance in the body’s qi (vital energy)

It is often combined with other cooling herbs such as Oldenlandia diffusa (Bai Hua She She Cao), Licorice Root (Gan Cao), or Dandelion Leaf (Pu Gong Ying) in classic formulations.

These traditional uses are based on centuries of empirical practice in East Asian herbal medicine. As always, modern clinical applications should be approached with appropriate guidance.

How to Use Wildcrafted Scullcap

Scullcap (Scutellaria barbata) is most often used in decoctions or tinctures, rather than as a standard herbal infusion.

Decoction Method

• Use 1–2 teaspoons of cut Scullcap per cup of water

• Bring to a low simmer for 20–30 minutes

• Strain and drink 1–2 cups daily, or as recommended by a practitioner

Tincture Use

Practitioners may create concentrated extracts using a 1:5 or 1:10 ratio with alcohol or glycerine. TCM formulations often combine Scullcap with complementary herbs for synergistic effect.

Sourcing & Quality Assurance

Our wildcrafted Scullcap is sustainably harvested in China and processed to high quality standards for use in herbal formulations and retail. Every batch is tested for identity, quality, and contamination. It is packaged in resealable, biodegradable pouches that preserve freshness while supporting our environmental mission.

Where to Buy Scullcap

You can shop our bulk offering here:

• Wildcrafted Scullcap Herb – Cut & Sifted

Important Notes & Safety

• Scutellaria barbata is not the same as Scutellaria lateriflora and should not be used interchangeably without professional guidance.

• Not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation

• May interact with certain medications, particularly those affecting the liver

• Always consult a qualified herbalist, naturopath, or healthcare provider before using this herb

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Wildcrafted Scullcap (Scutellaria barbata) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements, especially if you have underlying conditions or take medications.