Skullcap is a common name for herbs in the Scutellaria family. The two you’ll see most are American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) and Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis). People use skullcap for anxiety, sleep, mild inflammation, and as a general calming herb.
Both types work differently. American skullcap is used more for mild anxiety and nervous tension. Chinese skullcap is often used for inflammation and liver support because it contains compounds like baicalin and baicalein.
People take skullcap as tea, tincture, capsule, or extract. A typical routine looks like this: a cup of tea or 1–2 capsules in the evening for sleep or calming effects, or a standardized baicalin extract during the day for inflammation. Some herbalists combine skullcap with other calming herbs like valerian or passionflower.
Evidence is mixed. Small human trials and animal studies suggest calming effects and anti-inflammatory properties, especially for Chinese skullcap extracts. Still, the strongest proof is limited, so it’s best used as a supportive option rather than a replacement for prescribed medicine.
Common doses vary by form. For American skullcap tincture people often use about 1–4 mL, 2–3 times daily. For Chinese skullcap (baicalin extracts), doses in supplements typically range from 200–500 mg twice daily. Follow the product label or talk to a health pro for a dose that fits you.
Watch for interactions. Skullcap can add to the effects of sedatives and alcohol. If you take anxiety meds, sleeping pills, blood thinners, or strong liver-metabolized drugs, check with your doctor or pharmacist first. Don’t mix it with heavy drinking or recreational sedatives.
Side effects are usually mild: sleepiness, stomach upset, or headache. Rare reports link skullcap products to liver problems, but these cases often involved poor-quality products or mixes with other herbs. To lower risk, choose pure Scutellaria products with third-party testing and clear ingredient lists.
Avoid skullcap if you are pregnant or breastfeeding unless your healthcare provider says otherwise. If you have a liver condition, get medical approval before trying it. Stop use and see a doctor if you get jaundice, dark urine, itchy skin, or belly pain.
How to buy smart: look for Scutellaria baicalensis or Scutellaria lateriflora by botanical name, a standardized baicalin percentage for Chinese skullcap, and GMP or third-party lab tests. Read reviews and avoid products with unknown proprietary blends.
If you’re considering skullcap for anxiety, sleep, or inflammation, talk to a clinician or pharmacist. They can check drug interactions and recommend a safe dose. Reliable Canadian Pharmacy provides info on supplements and can help point you to trustworthy resources if you need more guidance.
