That means that some supplement products may not contain what the labels says.
More research is needed to recommend it for any of these conditions.
There are limited human trials for skullcap for two conditions: ankylosing spondylitis and gingivitis.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
AS mainly affects joints in the spine.
More human studies are needed to determine skullcap’s effect on AS.
Until more research is conducted, it’s best to stick withstandard treatmentslikephysical therapyandnonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
While results were promising, more data is needed before skullcap can be routinely recommended for gingivitis prevention.
What Are the Side Effects of Skullcap?
Your provider may recommend you take skullcap for inflammation or another use.
However, consuming an herb like this one may have potential side effects.
These side effects may be common and mild or less common and severe.
Only mild side effects were noted, including the following:
Skullcap side effects are still being determined.
Severe Side Effects
There’s not enough safety information to predict severe side effects of skullcap.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Skullcap should not be used duringpregnancyorbreastfeeding.
There’s no safety data for these populations.
Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider if you have any questions about skullcap.
Dosage: How Much Skullcap Should I Take?
There is no recommended daily allowance for skullcap and insufficient scientific evidence to determine an appropriate range of doses.
What Happens If I Take Too Much Skullcap?
There is not enough data to know if skullcap can cause toxicity.
More research is needed to determine to determine the risk for humans.
Speak with your healthcare provider before taking any herb or supplement.
Interactions
Skullcap and its active ingredients have been found to have several drug interactions in preliminary studies.
More trials are certainly needed.
How to Store Skullcap
Store skullcap according to manufacturer’s advice, away from children and pets.
Discard after one year or according to product directions.
Food Sources of Skullcap
Skullcap may be used to make a tea.
It has a slightly bitter taste.
It’s not likely to be found as an ingredient in other commercially available foods in the United States.
Skullcap Supplements
Skullcap supplements are available online and in health food stores and pharmacies.
It’s sold in capsule and as an extract.
Skullcap is often combined with other herbs into a preparation.
These independent testers make a run at ensure that listed ingredients match what’s in the product.
They also test whether the product is free of harmful contaminants.
Of note, there have not been clinical trials in humans to support these traditional uses.
Research in humans is needed.
Due to a lack of research findings supporting its use, skullcap is not recommended for use in children.
If you’re considering using skullcap for any health purpose, like first consult your healthcare provider.
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