Scullcap

Generic name: Scutellaria Lateriflora L.
Brand names: Helmetflower, Hoodwort, Mad-dog Weed, Scullcap, Skullcap

Usage of Scullcap

Sialic acids are widely distributed in tissues as constituents of glycolipids and glycoproteins. They are present in mucus secretions and cell membranes where they are thought to be the sites at which viruses attach and penetrate the cell wall. Serum sialic acid is known to increase in certain disease states (eg, cancers, rheumatic diseases, infections, inflammations), and it has been postulated that an inhibitor of sialidase, such as scullcap extract, may have a therapeutic application.

Most research to date focused on the Baical Skullcap (S. baicalensis), which is used to treat inflammation and atherosclerosis, has antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, and antithrombic properties. Few studies have been carried out on S. lateriflora and further work is needed on this species.

Anxiolytic

Animal data

One study assessed the anxiolytic efficacy of S. lateriflora in 2 animal test models to verify the traditional claims of anxiolytic activity. The results of the behavioral test indicated effects on anxiety levels in rats. The results of the study indicate that S. lateriflora has multiple active compounds and warrants further study to determine its potential to become a popular anxiolytic phytomedicine.(Awad 2003)

Clinical data

A double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 19 healthy volunteers aimed to clarify the effectiveness of S. lateriflora in reducing anxiety. Subjective end points were used and assessed the effects of the preparations on patients' energy, cognition, and anxiety. A greater degree of sedation was seen at higher doses. The data produced indicate an anxiolytic property of S. lateriflora in comparison to placebo.(Wolfson 2003)

Antimicrobial

Teas prepared from Scutellaria species have demonstrable in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activity.(Franzblau 1986)

Comparison studies with other herbal anxiolytics and prescription medicines are needed to define more specifically the clinical potential of S. lateriflora as an anxiety treatment. Further studies are needed to validate the results of limited studies and subjective end points used. Clinically validated endpoints are needed in clinically impaired populations to further determine the clinical effect of S. lateriflora.

Mood

Clinical studies

The effect of scullcap on mood was assessed in 31 healthy volunteers (6 men) 19 to 66 years of age who were randomized to 350 mg of S. lateriflora (whole aerial parts, not a standardized extract) 3 times daily or placebo for 2 weeks in a double-blind fashion and then crossed over to other treatment. Recruitment was generally based on persistent stress, anxiety, mood swings, irritability, poor sleep, or difficulty coping, as well as the inclusion of nonanxious participants. Exclusion criteria included a history of behaviors, conditions, or medications affecting the CNS. Overall, 81% of the group had a Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) score of 15 or less, which is considered mildly anxious at most. Although no significant difference was found between treatments measured on BAI scores, changes in total mood disturbance were significantly better with skullcap (P<0.001). Specifically, a significant group × treatment interaction was observed for the Depression-Dejection state and an enhanced effect of skullcap for the Vigor-Activity state with a 20% increase in energy levels. A potential carryover effect for scullcap was further analyzed and a highly significant improvement in total mood disturbance (P<0.001) was observed, an effect not seen with placebo.(Brock 2014)

Skull cap was identified as one of the most common herbs used by certified or licensed midwives for postpartum depression based on state-wide surveys in California, Texas, and North Carolina.(Dennehy 2010)

Scullcap side effects

The FDA presently designates scullcap as a herb of undefined safety.(Awad 2003) Minor and infrequent side effects were reported with the treatment for mood, and included vivid dreams (n=1), feeling spaced out (n=1), mild digestive disturbances (n=4), and a constant taste of salt (n=1). Of the 26 participants who completed a symptom diary, the conditions that reportedly resolved or improved corresponded with some of those noted for S. lateriflora related to allergies, inflammation, anxiety-related digestive problems, muscle tension and pain, headaches, and menstrual-related problems.(Brock 2014) A case of hypotension has been reported.(Dennehy 2010)

Before taking Scullcap

Documented adverse effects. Avoid use. May inhibit pituitary and chorionic gonadotropins, as well as prolactin.(Ernst 2002)

Skull cap was identified as the most common single herb used by certified or licensed midwives for labor-related anesthesia or analgesia based on state-wide surveys in California, Texas and North Carolina.(Dennehy 2010)

How to use Scullcap

Not enough is known about American skullcap to recommend its use to children younger than 18 years.

No recent well-controlled studies of American skullcap have been carried out in humans. Doses of American skullcap should be limited to no more than the package recommendation.

Typical doses (see individual product information):

Dried herb: 1 to 2 g 3 times/day.

Tea: 240 mL 3 times/day (pour 250 mL of boiling water over 5 to 10 mL of the dried herb and steep for 10 to 15 minutes).

Tincture: 2 to 4 mL 3 times/day.

Warnings

According to the FDA, an overdose of the tincture causes giddiness, stupor, confusion, twitching of the limbs, intermission of the pulse, and other symptoms indicative of epilepsy.(Duke 1985) Exceptionally large doses have resulted in seizure-like movements.

No data exist demonstrating liver toxicity on an experimental basis, or with any of the scullcap species as a solitary medicament.(Wolfson 2003) Other species of the genus have been implicated in reported cases of hepatotoxicity.

What other drugs will affect Scullcap

None well documented. However, because American skullcap may promote sleepiness, it may intensify the effects of drugs that also cause drowsiness. The effects of the drug may be exaggerated, resulting in sedation or mental impairment.

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