Scutellaria baicalensis
Baikal Skullcap
Lamiaceae
At a Glance
- Common name
- Baikal Skullcap
- Scientific name
- Scutellaria baicalensis
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Region
- China
- Plant part
- Root
- Caffeine
- Caffeine Free
- Evidence
- Limited
- Safety review
- Safety information on file
Safety & Cautions
Safety information on fileBotanical Description
A small upright perennial with opposite narrow lance-shaped leaves and small two-lipped purple-blue flowers, bearing a long thick yellow-rooted rhizome, the prized part used in TCM.
Also known as: Huang Qin, Chinese Skullcap, Golden Root
Historical Background
Baikal skullcap (huang qin) has been a prized root of Traditional Chinese Medicine for millennia, used to 'clear heat and dry dampness.' Distinct from American skullcap, its golden-yellow root is decocted into respiratory and calming teas, and its baicalin is much studied.
Earliest recorded uses: Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for millennia; a prized 'clear heat and dry dampness' root (huang qin).
Traditional preparations:
- Root decoction
- Clear-heat TCM formula
- Respiratory & calming tea
Traditional Uses
These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Clears heat, dries dampness; respiratory and calming root (huang qin).
Modern Herbalism
Respiratory and calming tea (distinct from American skullcap).
Flavor & Aroma
Aroma: Mild, slightly bitter, green, earthy
Tea Preparation
Modern Evidence
Baikal skullcap has a long TCM tradition for heat, respiratory, and calming needs. Preclinical work on baicalin shows anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity, but clinical evidence is limited; it is not a treatment for infection, hepatitis, anxiety, or any disease.
Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.
Related Herbs
Entry last updated August 4, 2026