Chinese Skullcap Root Extract
Also known as: Scutellaria baicalensis, Chinese Skullcap, Huang Qin, Baikal Skullcap
Overview
Scutellaria baicalensis, commonly known as Chinese Skullcap or Huang Qin, is a plant native to China and parts of Russia. The dry root of this plant has been traditionally used in Chinese and Korean medicine for its medicinal properties. It contains bioactive compounds, primarily flavonoids like baicalin and baicalein, which are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. These compounds have demonstrated the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, contributing to the plant's potential neuroprotective effects. Traditionally, it has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including allergies, infections, inflammation, cancer, headaches, and depression. While pre-clinical research is extensive, more human studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety. It is available in various forms, including powder, capsules, and extracts.
Benefits
Scutellaria baicalensis has shown potential antidepressant and hepatoprotective effects. A meta-analysis of pre-clinical studies indicated significant antidepressant effects in animal models (SMD ranging from -2.38 to -2.98, p < 0.01). A human study involving 17 patients showed no significant changes in liver function tests after long-term supplementation, suggesting potential hepatoprotective actions. Additionally, in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Some research also suggests anticancer properties, with extracts inducing cell death in certain cancer cell lines. However, most evidence is based on animal studies, and more human research is needed to confirm these benefits and determine their clinical significance.
How it works
The mechanism of action of Scutellaria baicalensis is primarily attributed to its bioactive flavonoids, baicalin and baicalein. These compounds modulate various biological pathways, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and neuroprotective pathways. They can cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially influencing neurotransmitter systems and inflammatory processes within the central nervous system. Scutellaria baicalensis interacts with multiple body systems, including the central nervous system, immune system, and liver. While the exact molecular targets are not fully elucidated, it is believed that these compounds influence various molecular targets to exert their therapeutic effects.
Side effects
Scutellaria baicalensis is generally considered safe when used appropriately, but caution is advised due to potential hepatotoxicity, especially when used in combination with other supplements. Common side effects in humans are not well-documented, but animal studies have not reported significant adverse effects at typical doses. Rare instances of clinically apparent liver injury have been reported, often in conjunction with other supplements known to cause hepatic dysfunction. Potential interactions with other supplements and medications, particularly those affecting liver function, should be monitored. Individuals with liver conditions or those taking medications that may affect liver function should exercise caution. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use due to limited human studies.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Scutellaria baicalensis in humans is not well established, but animal studies suggest efficacy at various doses. A human study used 1335 mg of dried root daily without significant adverse effects. Optimal dosage ranges are not clearly defined and may vary depending on the condition being treated. The maximum safe dose is also not established, but the aforementioned study suggests that 1335 mg daily may be tolerated. Consistency in dosing is likely important for therapeutic effects. It is available in various forms, including powder, capsules, and extracts. Bioavailability may be influenced by the form of the supplement and individual metabolic factors. There is no clear evidence of required cofactors for its efficacy.
FAQs
Is Scutellaria baicalensis safe?
It is generally considered safe, but caution is advised regarding potential liver effects, especially with concurrent use of other supplements known to affect the liver.
When and how should I take it?
Consistent dosing is recommended, but specific timing is not established. It is available in various forms, including powder, capsules, and extracts.
What results can I expect?
Pre-clinical studies suggest antidepressant and hepatoprotective effects, but more human studies are needed to confirm these effects. Individual results may vary.
Is it the same as American Skullcap?
No, Scutellaria baicalensis (Chinese Skullcap) is different from Scutellaria lateriflora (American Skullcap), which has different uses and effects.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1313871/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 pre-clinical studies (270 animals) found significant antidepressant effects in animal models, with SMDs ranging from -2.38 to -2.98 (p < 0.01). The study highlights the potential of Scutellaria baicalensis as an antidepressant, but notes moderate risk of bias and significant heterogeneity among the included studies, emphasizing the need for further research.
- https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/skullcap – This resource provides general information about skullcap, including its traditional uses and potential benefits. It notes that skullcap has been used for anxiety, insomnia, and nervous tension, but emphasizes that more research is needed to confirm these effects.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31557595/ – This clinical trial involving 17 patients showed no significant changes in liver function tests after long-term supplementation with Scutellaria baicalensis (average of 444 days), suggesting potential hepatoprotective actions. The study's small sample size and limited duration warrant further investigation to confirm these findings.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2016/3560812 – This systematic review analyzed 54 cases of liver injury associated with Chinese herbal medicines, including Scutellaria baicalensis, often in combination with other supplements. The review highlights the rare instances of liver injury and emphasizes the need for caution when using herbal medicines, particularly in combination with other supplements.
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/scutellaria-baicalensis – This resource from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center provides information on Scutellaria baicalensis, including its potential anticancer properties and traditional uses. It notes that some studies suggest that extracts of Scutellaria baicalensis can induce cell death in certain cancer cell lines, but emphasizes that more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.
Supplements Containing Chinese Skullcap Root Extract
Re-Feed Extreme Chocolate
GNC Beyond Raw
Amplified Total Muscle Recovery Chocolate
GNC Pro Performance AMP
Turmeric Sport
GNC Herbal Plus
Fish Oil 1500 +Joint Support
GNC Triple Strength
Mental Focus
Bronson Laboratories
Mental Focus
Bronson Laboratories
Re-Built Mass Vanilla Cake Batter
GNC Beyond Raw
Re-Power Orange
GNC Beyond Raw
Re-Power Fruit Punch
GNC Beyond Raw
Re-Feed Vanilla Cake Batter
GNC Beyond Raw
Re-Grow Vanilla Cream
GNC Beyond Raw
Re-Grow Chocolate
GNC Beyond Raw