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Herbs & Supplements
American Scullcap
Scientific Name: Scullcap
Other Names: Blue Pimpernel, Common Scullcap, Helmet Flower, Hoodwort, Mad-Dog Weed, Quaker Bonnet, Scutellaria lateriflora, Skullcap
When should I be careful taking it?
Cases of liver damage, including some that resulted in death, have occurred in individuals who were taking American scullcap. Although the liver damage was likely to have been caused by another substance contaminating the American scullcap, individuals who have any liver conditions and those who drink large amounts of alcohol should not take American scullcap. Liver damage can take years to develop and it may not have obvious signs. Tests of liver function may be needed to diagnose it. A doctor should be notified immediately if any of the following symptoms occur while American scullcap is being taken:
- Excessive fatigue
- Extreme widespread itchiness
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Pain or swelling in the upper right part of the abdomen
- Yellowing of the skin or the white parts of the eyes
Precautions
Not enough is known about how American scullcap might affect developing babies, infants, or children to recommend its use by pregnant or breast-feeding women or children under the age of 18.
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Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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When should I be careful taking it? 
