Barbed Skullcap Herb Whole (Scutellaria Barbata)

Barbed Skullcap Herb Whole (Scutellaria barbata), known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Ban Zhi Lian (半枝莲), is a cooling, bitter, and detoxifying herb traditionally used to clear heat, resolve toxicity, invigorate blood, and reduce swelling. This whole herb form preserves the full structure of the plant, including leaves, stems, and flowers, maintaining its natural potency and therapeutic balance.

In TCM, Ban Zhi Lian is often used to support the immune system, cool internal heat, and promote healthy circulation. It is commonly employed in formulas aimed at addressing inflammatory conditions, heat-induced swelling, and stagnation of qi and blood, as well as to support the body’s natural defenses and detox pathways. Its nature is cool, bitter, and slightly acrid, aligning it with herbs that target heat and toxicity in the liver, lungs, and blood.

When brewed, Barbed Skullcap Herb Whole produces a greenish-brown infusion with a bitter, slightly grassy taste. It is often paired with herbs like Oldenlandia (Hedyotis diffusa), Dandelion (Pu Gong Ying), or Red Peony Root (Chi Shao) to enhance its cleansing and cooling effects.

Each batch of Barbed Skullcap Herb Whole (Scutellaria barbata) is carefully harvested, dried, and sorted to retain its natural integrity, color, and therapeutic value. Whether used in traditional decoctions, wellness teas, or cleansing formulas, this herb offers a time-honored and powerful approach to clearing heat, supporting the immune system, and promoting internal balance and vitality.