Skullcap

Skullcap is an herbal supplement that is often used for treating anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. Although the effectiveness of this product has not been evaluated, it is believed that it may have anti-anxiety and sedative effects. Skullcap is available in several different forms, including extracts and teas. Potential side effects of skullcap supplements include drowsiness, giddiness, seizures, and liver damage.

 

What Is Skullcap?

Skullcap is a perennial herb used to treat a variety of conditions, including insomnia and anxiety. When used medicinally, the term "skullcap" usually refers to one specific plant species, Scutellaria lateriflora. There are several other related Scutellaria plants, but they should not be used interchangeably with skullcap.
 
(Click Benefits of Skullcap for more information on what skullcap is used for, including additional skullcap uses.)
 

How Does Skullcap Work?

It is not exactly clear how skullcap works. It seems that there are many different active compounds in skullcap, and researchers are not sure which of these compounds are responsible for the herb's medicinal properties. Some of these active compounds may work in the brain by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a brain chemical that is naturally calming. GABA can slow down or stop certain nerve signals in the brain. This may be why skullcap has anti-anxiety and sedative effects.
 

Is Skullcap Effective?

There is not enough scientific evidence to evaluate the effectiveness of skullcap for any use.
 
(Click Does Skullcap Work? for more information.)
 

Skullcap Dosing Information

A safe and effective skullcap dose has not been established. Skullcap is available in several different forms (such as extracts and teas), and the dosing directions may vary for different products. Be sure to follow the specific instructions on your particular skullcap product.
 
(Click Skullcap Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Skullcap

Many people believe that natural products, such as skullcap, have no side effects. However, many natural products cause side effects, some of which can be quite serious. Skullcap can cause side effects, such as:
 
  • Drowsiness
  • Confusion or slow mental functioning
  • Giddiness
  • Seizures
  • Liver damage.
     
(Click Skullcap Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions With Skullcap

It is not known whether skullcap interacts with other medications or supplements (see Skullcap Drug Interactions).
 

Is Skullcap Safe?

Some people may be more likely to experience problems due to skullcap. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking skullcap if you have:
 
  • Liver disease, such as liver failure, cirrhosis, or hepatitis
  • Seizures or epilepsy
  • Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
  • Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Skullcap Safety for more information, including any available skullcap warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take a Skullcap Overdose?

It is not known exactly what to expect from a skullcap overdose, although dangerous effects could occur. If you think you may have taken too much skullcap, seek medical attention immediately.
 
(Click Skullcap Overdose for more information.)
 

Skullcap: Storage Methods

Refer to the label of your individual skullcap product for information on how to best store the supplement. Keep skullcap and all other medications or supplements out of the reach of children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;