Skullcap is a perennial herb that is often used as a dietary supplement. This page on the eMedTV site explains what it is used for, lists possible side effects that may occur, and explores the safety and effectiveness of skullcap supplements.
Skullcap supplements may have anti-anxiety and sedative benefits. This article from the eMedTV archives discusses other possible benefits of skullcap, explores how the supplement may work, and explains whether it should be used in children.
Not many clinical studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of skullcap. This eMedTV article addresses the popular question of, "Does skullcap work?" and explains whether the supplement is effective for any use.
There have been reports of liver damage caused by products that contain skullcap. This portion of the eMedTV Web site contains more skullcap safety information and explains who may not be able to safely use skullcap supplements.
Severe drowsiness, stupor, and seizures are potential skullcap side effects that require medical attention. This eMedTV segment lists other side effects that should be reported and which may indicate that you should stop taking the supplement.
At this time, no safe and effective skullcap dosage has been established. This portion of the eMedTV Web site discusses reasonable skullcap dosing and offers information on how to find a reputable manufacturer for the supplement.
There are currently no known skullcap drug interactions. As this part of the eMedTV library explains, however, it is possible that drugs with sedative properties could interact with skullcap, perhaps increasing the risk of severe drowsiness.
At this time, it is not known whether skullcap supplements are safe for pregnant women. This eMedTV article provides more information on skullcap and pregnancy, and explains why "natural" products are not as safe as many people think.
It is not known whether it is safe to use skullcap while breastfeeding. This page from the eMedTV archives includes more information about skullcap and breastfeeding, and explains whether the supplement passes through breast milk.
A skullcap overdose could potentially cause giddiness, stupor, and seizures. This segment from the eMedTV site lists other symptoms that may occur with an overdose of skullcap and describes various treatment options that are available for an overdose.
