skullcap root

The skullcaps ( Scutellaria ) are a genus of plants that include over 400 different species found worldwide. The best-known species, however, is the Baikal skullcap ( Scutellaria baicalensis ). This species is found in northern East Asia and thus grows in parts of Siberia, Mongolia, China, Korea and Japan. The herb has upright growing shoots that have rows of beautiful purple flowers, but the root is mainly used. What makes this subspecies so special is that it is the most collected medicinal plant for traditional Chinese medicine. Traditionally, it is used as a medicinal plant in many ways, for infectious diseases, rheumatism, arrhythmia, high blood pressure and pneumonia. Compared to other medicinal plants such as echinacea or ginseng, the Baikal skullcap is characterized by its strong antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects.  

In one study, an ingredient in the plant showed an antispasmodic and calming effect, which led to improved sleep in the mice studied. But the herb does not only have an effect on the nervous system.  

The main feature of its medicinal use is its effect on the immune system. Baikal skullcap has anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial effects. Many studies also indicate that it has a wide range of antitumor effects. Promising observations have been made, particularly against colon, breast and cervical cancer. Colon and breast cancer are the two most common types of cancer that occur in women. Researchers are therefore particularly interested in studying skullcap.  

The most important ingredients of the plant are wogonin and baicalein, both of which are being studied in more detail in research as they offer potential for new drugs against autoimmune diseases or cancer, for example. Research has even shown that wogonin can trigger cell death in cancer cells, but leave healthy cells untouched.  

What is particularly interesting for women is that components of the plant are believed to help against pregnancy-related diseases such as gestational diabetes and could also be preventative against premature births and miscarriages.  

Possible side effects 

Skullcap roots are generally well tolerated, unless there are intolerances that can lead to stomach problems. In very rare cases and usually in combination with other herbs, liver damage has been observed due to skullcap.  

Literature:  

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8. Yu P, Li J, Luo Y, Sun J, Hu Y, Lin B, Meng X, Xiang L. Mechanistic Role of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi in Breast Cancer Therapy. Am J Chin Med 2023;51(2):279-308.  
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11. "LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury". United States National Library of Medicine. 2012. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548757/ (Accessed on January 23, 2024)  
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