Skullcap: 9 Health Benefits, How to Use It & Side Effects

Skullcap is the common name for several plants in the Scutellaria genus, used in Western and Eastern herbal traditions. The most studied species are American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) and Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis), both rich in flavonoids.

These compounds include baicalin, baicalein and wogonin, which have been evaluated for potential effects on mood, inflammation, oxidative stress and immune balance. Research also explores possible benefits for sleep, digestion and cardiovascular health.

Scientists continue to study differences among skullcap species, including how they vary in their chemical composition and potential biological effects.

Health benefits

Skullcap is associated with the following health benefits:

1. Supports relaxation and mood balance

American skullcap may promote relaxation and help support mild mood balance. Studies in healthy adults show improvements in tension and general mood, likely related to its natural flavonoids and their influence on the nervous system.

2. Helps improve sleep quality

A controlled study using a standardized Scutellaria lateriflora extract found improvements in sleep patterns and quality. These effects may be linked to the herb’s calming activity and interaction with pathways involved in sleep regulation.

3. Provides anti-inflammatory effects

Chinese skullcap contains compounds with notable anti-inflammatory activity. Flavonoids such as baicalin, baicalein and wogonin may help reduce the production of certain inflammatory molecules in the body.

4. Offers antioxidant protection

Skullcap flavonoids help protect cells from oxidative stress. Extracts from Scutellaria baicalensis have demonstrated antioxidant effects in laboratory studies, helping reduce DNA damage and supporting overall cell health.

5. Supports immune function

Compounds in Scutellaria baicalensis may influence immune cell behavior and help regulate inflammatory responses. Animal studies show effects on white blood cells and lymphatic tissues, suggesting potential support for immune balance.

6. May offer digestive system support

Extracts of Scutellaria baicalensis have been studied for potential benefits in digestive discomfort, altered motility or inflammatory gastrointestinal conditions.

7. Shows potential anticancer activity 

Laboratory research shows that baicalin, baicalein and wogonin may affect cancer-related pathways. These findings are preclinical and relate to cell signaling and apoptosis.

8. May support cardiovascular health

Studies suggest that baicalin and related compounds may help protect cardiovascular tissues by supporting endothelial function and reducing oxidative processes.

9. Exhibits antimicrobial activity

Several Scutellaria species show antibacterial activity in laboratory studies. Extracts demonstrate effects against organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Types of this plant

Skullcap includes several species with different properties. The most common types are:

1. American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

American skullcap is widely used in Western herbal practices. It is known for its calming, mood-supporting and sleep-related properties. Its aerial parts are most often used.

2. Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis)

Chinese skullcap is extensively studied and commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its roots contain concentrated levels of baicalin, baicalein and wogonin, associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and cardiovascular effects.

3. Other species

Other species such as Scutellaria barbata and Scutellaria rehderiana have been evaluated for their unique flavonoid profiles. Some are studied for antimicrobial activity or botanical classification but are less common in supplements.

How to use it

Skullcap can be found in several forms, each with different preparation methods and concentrations.

1. Tea (infusion)

Tea is made from the aerial parts of American skullcap or the dried roots of Chinese skullcap. Hot water extracts the active compounds, and tea may be used one or more times daily depending on the preparation.

2. Capsules or tablets

Standardized extracts of Scutellaria lateriflora or Scutellaria baicalensis are often used in studies. Dosages vary based on the concentration of flavonoids, and capsules provide consistent amounts of these compounds.

3. Liquid extracts or tinctures

Liquid forms allow adjustable dosing and may be absorbed more quickly. Concentrations vary by manufacturer, and dosing is typically measured by drops or milliliters.

4. Powdered root extracts

Powdered extracts of Chinese skullcap root contain specific levels of baicalin or baicalein. These powders can be mixed with liquids or encapsulated, and some studies examine formulations that improve absorption.

Possible side effects

Most research indicates that standardized skullcap extracts are well tolerated. Rare reports of liver toxicity exist, particularly when skullcap was used with other herbs or supplements. Some individuals may experience mild digestive upset or allergic reactions.

Skullcap compounds may influence the way certain medications are metabolized, which could affect how drugs are processed in the body.

Contraindications

Individuals with known allergies to plants in the mint family should avoid skullcap. People with liver disease or those taking substances that affect the liver should also avoid it due to reported cases of hepatotoxicity.

Use is discouraged during pregnancy and breastfeeding because safety data is limited. Caution is also recommended for individuals taking medications with narrow therapeutic ranges or drugs affected by metabolic pathways known to interact with skullcap compounds.