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Scullcap (baikal skullcap)

Generic name: scullcap (baikal skullcap) [SKUL-cap]
Drug class: herbal products

What is Scullcap?

Scullcap is a species of plant commonly referred to as Baikal Scullcap, Chinese Skullcap, Escutelaria Asiatica. Huang Qin, Huangquin, Hwanggum, Ogon, Ou-gon, Racine de Scutellaire du Lac Baïkal Radix Scutellariae, Scutellaire, Wogon, and many other names

Scullcap, which is taken orally, is used to treat issues with the lung and hay fever. It also treats seizures, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis. Scullcap that is applied to the skin is employed for treating psoriasis, swelling, or sores, as well as hemorrhoids. However, scullcap hasn't been demonstrated by research to be effective at treating these ailments.

It is not known if Scullcap can be beneficial in the treatment of any medical condition. The medical use of this drug is not recognized by the FDA. Scullcap shouldn't be used as a substitute for medications that are prescribed by your physician.

Scullcap is commonly marketed as a supplement for herbal use. There aren't any regulated manufacturing standards for many herbal substances, and some of the supplements that are sold have been discovered to contain contamination with poisonous metals or other substances. The best herbal and health supplements are purchased from a trusted source to avoid the possibility of contamination.

Scullcap can also be utilized to accomplish other functions not mentioned in this guideline for the product.

Side effects of Scullcap

See a doctor immediately. If you notice any of the following symptoms, warning signs of allergic reactions may include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.

Stop using Scullcap, and contact your doctor immediately in the event that you are suffering from:

  • Indications of swelling in your lungs: anxiety, sweating, pale skin, extreme breathing problems, wheezing, coughing with foamy mucus, chest pain, rapid or irregular heart rate,
  • Liver issues liver problems: nausea and stomach pains in the upper part of the stomach, itching, fatigue, loss of appetite black stools, dark urine, and jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin).

Common side effects of scullcaps could include:

  • Drowsiness;

It's not a complete list of the possible adverse effects, but other things might occur. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical effects. You can report any symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Similar/related drugs

Turmeric, Ginkgo Biloba

Warnings

Follow the directions on the label and the package. Be sure to inform your health care providers about your medical conditions, allergies, and any medications you take.

Prior to use this drug

Consult a pharmacist, doctor, or other healthcare professional about whether it is appropriate to take this medication when you are:

  • Diabetes.

It is unknown if the scullcap product can cause harm to a baby who is not yet born. Do not use this product unless you have medical advice.

It isn't known if the scullcap is absorbed into breast milk or if there is a risk to the nursing infant. Do not take this product without medical advice if you're breastfeeding your baby.

Do not provide any herbal or health supplements to your child without medical guidance. Scullcap, in the form of an injection administered by a certified medical professional, is thought to be safe for use in children for as long as 7 days.

How to take scullcap?

If you're considering taking herbal supplements, you should seek advice from your physician. It is also possible to consult an expert who has been trained on the use of health and herbal supplements.If you decide to use Scullcap, make sure you use it according to the directions on the label or as instructed by your pharmacist, doctor, or other healthcare provider. Don't use more of the product than is indicated by the manufacturer on its label.

Do not consume topically (for your skin) the scullcap via mouth. The forms for topical use are only for use on the skin.Don't use multiple types (tablets, teas, tinctures, liquids, and so on) of scullcap simultaneously without medical guidance. Using different formulations in combination can increase the risk of overdose.

Contact your physician. Consult your doctor if the problem you're treating with scullcap doesn't improve or gets worse when you use this product.Place it in a cool, dry place far from heat and moisture.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Don't miss your missed dosage if you are close to the time of the next dose. Do not take Scullcap Extra to make up for the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

In case of medical emergencies, get emergency medical attention or seek assistance via the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

Drinking alcohol can make you more drowsy due to scullcap.

Do not take scullcap in conjunction with other supplements for health or herbs that may cause an increase in drowsiness. This includes 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan), calamus, California poppy, catnip, gotu kola, Jamaican dogwood, kava, melatonin, St. John's wort, valerian yerba-mansa, and more.

Interaction with other drugs

The combination of scullcap and medicines that cause you to sleep could make you more sleepy. Avoid taking scullcap when you are taking sleeping pills, painkillers, or narcotic medication such as muscle relaxers or medication that treats depression, anxiety, or seizures.

Do not take scullcap unless you have medical advice if you're using any of these medicines:

  • Insulin, or oral diabetes medicine;
  • Lithium
  • Sedative like Valium.

This list isn't exhaustive. Other medications can be incompatible with scullcap, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. The interactions of all drugs are included in this guideline for products.