Evidence supporting the use of: Skullcap (unspecified)
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Skullcap (referring generally to the genus Scutellaria, particularly Scutellaria lateriflora or American skullcap) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, especially in North America and Europe, as a remedy for anxiety, nervous tension, and insomnia. Historical records from the 18th and 19th centuries document its use by herbalists to "calm the nerves" and as a "nerve tonic." Despite this traditional use, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for anxiety disorders is limited. A small number of animal studies and pilot human trials have explored skullcap extracts, suggesting possible anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, potentially through modulation of GABAergic neurotransmission. However, these studies are generally preliminary, with small sample sizes and methodological limitations. Systematic reviews and authoritative sources (such as the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database) consistently rate clinical evidence as insufficient to make firm conclusions about its effectiveness for anxiety. Therefore, while skullcap is traditionally used for anxiety, robust scientific validation is lacking, and the overall evidence is weak (rated 2/5). Individuals interested in skullcap for anxiety should consult healthcare professionals, especially due to concerns about product quality, accurate species identification, and rare reports of liver toxicity.

More about Skullcap (unspecified)
More about Anxiety Disorders

Other health conditions supported by Skullcap (unspecified)

Anxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Insomnia
Stress

Products containing Skullcap (unspecified)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.