Skullcap, Baical (Huang-qin)

Baical Skullcap (Huang Qin)

Scutellaria baicalensis

Botanical Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)

Botanical Description

Scutellaria baicalensis is a perennial growing 30-60cm tall, native to East Asia. Unlike its American cousin (S. lateriflora), it has narrow, lance-shaped leaves and blue-purple flowers in terminal racemes. The root – the medicinal part – is golden-yellow inside when fresh (hence the Chinese name “Huang Qin” – yellow gold), becoming brownish-yellow when dried.

Medicinal Actions

Primary actions: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, anxiolytic.

Traditional uses: In TCM, Huang Qin is classified as a bitter, cold herb that “clears heat and dries dampness.” It is used for conditions with inflammation, infection, and fever. One of the 50 fundamental herbs in TCM.

Key compounds: Contains flavonoids including baicalin, baicalein, and wogonin – extensively researched for anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and neuroprotective properties.

Body Systems Affected

Respiratory: Used for respiratory infections with heat signs (fever, yellow mucus).

Digestive: Used for gastrointestinal infections and inflammation.

Hepatic: Hepatoprotective; supports liver function.

Nervous: Research suggests anxiolytic and neuroprotective effects.

Cardiovascular: Traditionally used for hypertension.

Safety Information

Generally safe when used appropriately. May cause digestive upset in some people.

Cold nature: In TCM terms, avoid in conditions with cold/deficiency patterns without balancing herbs.

Pregnancy: Traditionally contraindicated in pregnancy.

Drug interactions: May interact with sedatives, blood pressure medications, and drugs metabolized by certain liver enzymes.

Growing Guide

Hardiness: Zones 4-8. Very cold hardy.

Light: Full sun to light shade.

Soil: Well-drained, slightly sandy soil. Tolerates poor soil.

Sowing: Sow in spring after last frost. Seeds germinate best with light – surface sow and press in.

Spacing: 30cm apart.

Harvesting

Part used: Root.

When to harvest: Autumn of the 3rd or 4th year.

Note: Young roots (under 3 years) have different properties in TCM and are used differently.

Drying & Storage

Clean roots and slice. Dry at 40°C (104°F). The interior should be yellow. Store in airtight containers in a cool, dark place for up to 2 years.