Baikal skullcap
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
Baikal skullcap (Scutellaria barbata) is a perennial native to southern China and throughout Korea. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), it is used as an anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antitumor agent, especially in liver diseases such as hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In western herbalism, it is better known as an ingredient in PC-SPES.
WARNING: PC-SPES HAS BEEN RECALLED FROM THE U.S. MARKET AND SHOULD NOT BE USED.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Cancer C
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to Baikal skullcap (Scutellaria barbata), its constituents, or members of the Lamiaceae family. Use cautiously if taking sedatives and/or operating heavy machinery. Use cautiously if taking antineoplastic (anticancer) agents or agents metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Note: Baikal skullcap is an ingredient in PC-SPES, a product that has been recalled from the U.S. market and should not be used.

Possible side effects:
Constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, gas, nausea, pneumonia, vomiting.

Possible interactions:
5-fluorouracil, antibiotics, antifungals, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory agents, antilipemic agents (cholesterol-lowering agents), antineoplastic (anticancer) agents, antioxidants, antiviral agents, cytochrome P450 metabolized agents, cyclophosphamide, diuretics, hematological (for the blood) agents, hepatotoxic (liver damaging) agents, sedatives, and herbs and supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adults (18 years and older):
350 milliliters of BZL101 (an extract of Baikal skullcap) has been used as a sole cancer therapy until disease progression, toxicity, or personal preference to discontinue.

Children (younger than 18 years):
Not enough scientific data available.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.