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Skullcap refers to plants in the genus Scutellaria, most commonly American skullcap (S. lateriflora) and Chinese skullcap (S. baicalensis). While traditionally used as calming nervines to soothe anxiety and aid sleep, the two species have distinct properties and applications in herbal medicine.
American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
American skullcap is native to North America and has a long history of use in Indigenous and European traditional medicine. The aerial parts (leaves, stems, and flowers) are used for their sedative and anti-anxiety effects.
Traditional uses:
Nervous system support: As a "hypnotic nervine," it is used to soothe an overactive nervous system and address anxiety, stress, insomnia, and nervous tension.
Muscular spasms: In the 19th and early 20th centuries, eclectic herbalists used it as an antispasmodic for muscle cramps and convulsions.
Other conditions: Traditional uses also include treating headaches, menstrual disorders, and kidney problems.
Mechanisms:
It is believed that flavonoid compounds, such as baicalin, in American skullcap act on GABA receptors in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate nerve activity and has a calming effect.
Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis)
Also known as Huang-Qin, Chinese skullcap is a fundamental herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The dried root is the medicinal part of the plant.
Traditional uses:
Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial: Used for "hot and damp" conditions in TCM, it helps combat infections and inflammation in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and urinary tracts.
Liver support: It is used to aid the liver in clearing toxins and has hepatoprotective properties.
Hypertension: Historically prescribed for high blood pressure.
Other traditional uses: This herb has also been used for diarrhea, insomnia, hemorrhaging, and allergies.
Mechanisms:
The root contains flavonoid compounds like baicalin, baicalein, and wogonin, which possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Safety considerations
Contamination risk: Some products labeled as skullcap have been found to be adulterated with germander (Teucrium species), an herb toxic to the liver. This adulteration has likely been responsible for most of the reported cases of liver damage linked to "skullcap". Reputable sources recommend seeking independently tested products.
Drug interactions: Skullcap can intensify the effects of sedative drugs, including anti-anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, and sleeping pills, leading to excessive drowsiness.
High-dose side effects: Excessive amounts of skullcap can cause confusion, stupor, and twitching.
Pregnancy and children: Skullcap is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or for children, due to a lack of safety data.
Blood sugar: Baikal skullcap may affect blood sugar levels, and people with diabetes should use it with caution.
Disclaimer: As with any herbal supplement, you should consult a healthcare provider before taking skullcap, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a pre-existing medical condition, or are taking other medications.