Scutellaria baicalensis: medicinal properties and contraindications

One of the most popular plants in alternative medicine is Baikal Scutellaria. This perennial in ancient times saved people from cancer, inflammatory processes, heart diseases and the nervous system. And today Baikal skullcap is no less in demand. In order to evaluate the beneficial effect of a plant on the body and its health benefits, it is important to know how rich it is, what properties it has and how to take it.

Chemical composition

Scutellaria baicalensis is a plant rich in useful substances that can be used for treatment and recovery. Due to the fact that the active components are present in the rhizome in high concentration, the use of raw materials gives a pronounced effect.

In Chinese traditional medicine, scutellaria has been used for more than a century. It was there that this perennial was first recognized by evidence-based medicine as a plant with a pronounced therapeutic effect. But until now, Scutellaria is not a pharmacopoeial plant, since there is not enough research on its composition. But even what scientists have managed to find out to date is proof of its benefits.

In the composition of Scutellaria baicalensis, at least 8 types of substances were found that are present in significant concentrations and have beneficial effects on human health.

1. Flavonoids of four types: vogonin, scutellarein, baikalein and baikalin.
2. Saponins are active components, powerful stimulants and adaptogens of a wide spectrum of action.
3. Steroids and phytohormones - β-sitosterol, phytosterol, campestrin, stigmasterol. These are substances that provide anti-cancer effects, normalize hormonal levels and prolong youth.
4. Coumarins are active substances that thin the blood, relieve spasms. Coumarins are useful for the prevention of stroke, thrombosis, heart attack. Indispensable substances of this group with hypertension.
5. Tannins - have the ability to stimulate tissue regeneration, eliminate the inflammatory process. Needed for scarring of ulcers, elimination of inflammatory processes. In addition, tannins have the ability to prevent the aging of cells and tissues, activating their recovery.
6. Plant resins are substances that have a bactericidal, stimulating effect. There are also resinous organic acids in the rhizome - antioxidant and antitumor effects.
7. Vitamins: PP (rutin), A (retinol), E (tocopherol), B1, B2, B6, B9.
8. Micro and macro elements: zinc, magnesium, selenium, potassium, molybdenum, iodine, calcium, potassium.

Thanks to a special set of active components that give a synergy effect in the aggregate, the Scutellaria baicalensis has a number of pronounced therapeutic effects. But there is also a minus in the fact that the rhizome of the plant is rich in such substances, therefore, with an overdose, negative consequences are possible.

How it looks and where it grows

Despite the fact that Scutellaria baicalensis is a popular medicinal plant throughout the world, it is not found everywhere in nature. This plant is part of the family Iasnatkovye and is a representative of the large genus Shlemnik, represented by 460 species. Scutellaria baicalensis is a herbaceous plant with a long development cycle. In the natural environment grows in the eastern part of Europe and in Asia.

Botanical characteristics:

• the root system is well developed, pivotal, goes deep into 1 m;
• plant height - about 50-60 cm;
• stems are thin, straight, sometimes branched;
• leaves are opposite, linear;
• panicle inflorescences;
• flowers of an asymmetric form, purple.

Shlemnik Chinese is unpretentious, so it can grow rapidly in any conditions. The plant prefers sandy loam soils with neutral Ph. It can be grown at home, if transplanted by dividing the rhizome, cuttings. If planted with seeds, the plant will ripen for a very long time.

Kinds

The genus Shlemnik has more than four hundred species, but not all of them have therapeutic value. Scutellaria baicalensis is the most significant species for alternative medicine. Also, these types are often used:

• ordinary;
• squat;
• lanceolate;
• Altaic.

Due to the fact that these varieties contain less active components, it is more advisable for therapeutic purposes to choose the Scutellaria baicalensis as the most effective medicinal plant representing this genus.

Collection and storage

It is possible to collect vegetable raw materials independently for the purpose of harvesting only in safe places. Even the most useful medicinal plants can be potentially dangerous to human health and life, if you do not follow the basic rules of collection.

1. Safe plants can only be harvested in areas located away from highways. Plants are toxic near roads and highways because they accumulate heavy metals and other poisons from automobile exhaust gases.
2. It is forbidden to collect medicinal raw materials in places located near industrial enterprises and factories. Herbs can also be toxic, accumulate toxic substances.
3. It is strictly forbidden to collect raw materials in regions with increased radiation background, as plants will be potentially dangerous and carcinogenic, which can cause great damage to the body.
4. It is also impossible to collect near cemeteries, cattle burial grounds and livestock facilities.
5. Since Scutellaria baicalensis is a perennial, and the collection involves digging with a root, it is necessary to leave 2-3 plants on each square meter of thickets.
6. You can only collect mature plants that are at least 6-7 years old, with at least 5 mature stems.
7. It is not worth annually collecting in the same place. You can return to the old place after a minimum of 7-8 years.
8. The collection must begin no earlier than mid-September. Scutellaria baicalensis by this time manages to completely seed, and the active substances in the rhizome accumulate in maximum concentration.

Knowing the basic rules, you can wait for the season and start collecting raw materials. In order to be able to get high-quality medicinal raw materials, you must follow this instruction:

1. Carefully dig out the roots with a shovel along with an earthen lump so as not to damage them.
2. Immediately cut off the aerial part of the plant.
3. Shake the roots from the ground, but in no case wash.
4. Dry the raw materials for 14–20 days.
5. After drying, sort out the roots, remove damaged areas.
6. Grind and pour into a glass jar with a lid for storage.

You can also store raw materials in bags of natural fabric. But in this case, it is important to maintain a stable air temperature and humidity in the room. Also, in the room where the rhizomes of Scutellaria are stored, there should be no extraneous sharp odors. The maximum shelf life of raw materials is 2 years. But if mold appeared on the rhizomes or they became wet, you can not use such raw materials for medicinal purposes, even if the shelf life has not yet expired.

The healing properties of Scutellaria baicalensis

Scutellaria baicalensis is a plant with a rich composition, in which there are active substances that regulate biological processes in the body. The main significant components are flavonoids and saponins, they produce a therapeutic effect.But excipients also, when interacting with them, enhance the healing properties of the plant. To date, in the course of research, 12 medicinal properties of Scutellaria baicalensis were discovered.

1. Hypotonic effect - due to the content of substances that relax smooth muscles and relieve spasm, the plant effectively reduces pressure.
2. Antiviral efficacy is the result of flavonoids. They reduce the activity of viruses, and also protect healthy cells in which the infection has not yet had time to settle.
3. The antibacterial and bactericidal effect is due to the presence of resins and organic acids. But scientists were not able to find out against which strains of bacteria the Scutellaria baicalensis is effective. Therefore, in the case of bacterial infections, the use of herbal remedies can only be considered as an addition to antibiotics.
4. The ability to significantly slow down the aging process. This property is the result of the presence of antioxidants and saponins in the perennial.
5. The neuroprotective effect is due to a large number of flavonoids, as well as an abundance of minerals that restore the nervous system and normalize its functioning.
6. Antitumor effect - the activity of antioxidants and organic acids that can infect cancer cells that have already developed. The ability to stop the growth of tumors has scientific grounds, but the use of herbal preparations does not replace the main therapy for cancer.
7. The substances contained in the plant are able to prevent the formation of blood clots and thin the blood. Due to this, Scutellaria effectively cleanses blood vessels and normalizes blood circulation.
8. The grass has the ability to activate the restoration of liver cells, protects them and prevents the processes of tissue degeneration in case of fatty disease, hepatitis and cirrhosis.
9. Shlemnik is used to treat weather dependence. It is taken both as a symptomatic remedy and for long-term results.
10. Perennial is effective for hormonal disorders. It provides stabilization of the production of necessary hormones and compensates for their deficiency with plant analogues that are part of it.
11. The effectiveness of Scutellaria with dry cough is also proven - it dilutes sputum and improves its excretion from the body.
12. The plant has the ability to stimulate the functioning of the complex of protective reactions of the body, which is used in the treatment of conditions associated with a decrease in immunity.

The medicinal properties of the plant can be used only if there are no contraindications. You should not give up the main therapy - perennial components will only supplement it and increase the effectiveness of pharmaceuticals when used correctly.

Scutellaria baicalensis in folk medicine

In Chinese medicine, Scutellaria baicalensis is among the 50 most significant plants. In many other countries, it is the subject of active study, since a lot of potentially useful substances are found in the composition of the plant. In order to experience the healing power of this perennial in practice, it is important to know how to properly use it for recreational purposes.

With hypertension

Today, pharmaceutical companies use Baikal Scutellaria for the manufacture of medicines that effectively help with hypertension. You can create a medicine yourself.

1. A tablespoon of chopped rhizomes pour a glass of boiling water.
2. Boil in a water bath for 30 minutes.
3. Insist under a closed lid 1-1.5 hours.
4. Strain and divide into three doses - in the morning, at lunch, and in the evening.

It is necessary to treat hypertension according to this recipe for at least 21 days, and then take a break for a week and a half.When the break is over, if the symptoms of hypertension remain, you can repeat the course. If you urgently need to relieve an attack of hypertension, 100 ml of this decoction will help to reduce the pressure.

With neurosis and panic attacks

The alcoholic tincture of Scutellaria copes well with panic attacks, since its components regulate the activity of the autonomic nervous system. Also, tincture helps with neurosis. It can be used for such conditions and diseases:

• depressive disorder - 20 drops three times a day;
• apathy - 30 drops in the morning for 3 weeks;
• increased anxiety - in case of attacks;
• excessive irritability - 20 drops 2 times a day;
• chronic stress - 30 drops once a day for 10 days.

You can also take tincture one-time as a sedative and relaxing remedy for stress. With a breakdown and overwork, it is recommended to take tinctures of 30 drops once a day for 3-5 days.

Against cough

Any disease accompanied by dry cough can be alleviated with the help of infusion of rhizome of Scutellaria with honey and soda. You need to prepare the infusion like this:

• in a deep bowl mix ½ teaspoon of soda and a tablespoon of rhizome powder;
• pour into a thermos;
• add 500 ml of boiling water.

Take this infusion in the form of heat 5 times a day, adding 1–2 teaspoons of honey. Shlemnik liquefies sputum, due to which it is quickly excreted from the body. To speed up the process, you can use the same infusion of Scutellaria with soda for inhalation. It is important to drink plenty of fluids in order to quickly cleanse the body.

With weather dependence

The plant helps to restore the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, eliminates spasms of cerebral vessels and stabilizes pressure.

The broth is prepared from 2 tablespoons of raw materials and 250 ml of water, boiled for 3 minutes and insisted until completely cooled under a closed lid. Store the product in the refrigerator. With meteorological dependence, it is recommended that rhizome decoction be taken in courses according to this scheme:

• the first 3 days - 3 times a day for 20 ml;
• 5 days - 2 times a day for 20 ml;
• 7 days - 20 ml once a day (in the morning).

In order to achieve success in treatment, it is important to observe a sleep regimen along with the use of herbal remedies. Without a quality long rest, the body will not be able to cope with the problem, and the situation will only worsen. If you are sensitive to weather changes and the geomagnetic situation, you can once take a scutellaria decoction in an amount of 50 ml to improve well-being.

For the liver

The hepatoprotective properties of Scutellaria baicalensis have long been used in alternative medicine. Perennial contributes to the rapid renewal and restoration of hepatocytes - functional liver cells. Indications for use of funds based on scutellaria:

1. Chronic hepatitis of viral etiology in remission - Scutellaria reduces viral activity, eliminates inflammation and protects cells.
2. Cirrhosis - only in the initial stages, when there is no pronounced liver dysfunction.
3. Fatty liver disease - at all stages.
4. Oncological diseases of the liver.

The main rule of treatment is to use only water infusion and decoction. Alcohol tincture is not suitable for the treatment of liver diseases, since ethanol additionally loads it and leads to intoxication. The treatment of liver diseases with Scutellaria is quite long:

• the first course - 100 ml of broth 2 times a day for 3 weeks;
• after ten days, repeat, but already 50 ml of broth daily, 2 times a day;
• the third course - 50 ml daily for a month.

Also, to restore the liver, a mixture is used - milk thistle powder and scutellaria in a ratio of 1: 1. It is necessary to eat 1 teaspoon of dry mixture before each meal for 3 weeks.

For women's health

With PMS, during the onset of menopause, as well as to restore the menstrual cycle, the use of alcohol tincture or water decoction of Scutellaria baicalensis is indicated. It evens out the hormonal background and is able to compensate for the lack of hormones. It is necessary to take alcohol tincture according to this scheme:

1. With PMS - for 5 days, 30 drops in the morning.
2. During menopause - daily, 100 ml of decoction in the morning, three ten-day courses with 1 week intervals.
3. From failures in the menstrual cycle - drink the course in 28 days, daily 50 ml of infusion 3 times a day.

It is strictly forbidden to take preparations based on scutellaria with heavy menstruation or suspected bleeding. The fact is that the active components of the plant reduce blood coagulation, which can lead to dangerous consequences for health and life.

Plant-based preparations

You can prepare homemade medicine from a helmet on your own. There are classic, versatile recipes that have been used for centuries. The main thing is to observe the technology and proportions, then the medicine will be effective and can be stored for a long time.

Infusion

Water infusion - a means based on scutellaria, used for preventive and cosmetic purposes. This dosage form is the least effective, since the concentration of active substances in this method of preparation is lower than in a decoction or alcohol tincture.

Preparing an infusion is the easiest. It is necessary to fill in a thermos with boiling water (500 ml) 2 tablespoons of raw materials. Insist for at least 2 hours, and then take 100-150 ml 10-15 minutes before meals. Infusion should be prepared daily, since it can be stored for no longer than 24 hours.

The liquid is a saturated amber hue, with a pronounced aroma and tart bitter taste. If it is difficult to take pure water infusion in its pure form, you can add honey, a small amount of sugar syrup or fresh berry jam if desired.

Decoction

The most commonly used dosage form is Scutellaria decoction. In it, the active components of the plant are present in high concentration, therefore this method of preparing the medicine is considered the most reliable. To prepare a decoction, you need to proceed according to this scheme:

• boil 250 ml of water;
• pour 2 tablespoons of raw materials into boiling water;
• boil over low heat or in a water bath for 30 minutes;
• insist until cool;
• strain and pour into a clean storage container.

It is better to take the broth in the form of heat, so it is absorbed faster, but you can store the finished medicine for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Powder

You can prepare powder from plant materials using a coffee grinder. In this format, plant materials are much more convenient to use. Powder can be used in the following ways:

• for the preparation of ointments;
• powders of poorly healing wounds;
• chewing with jam or honey for attacks of hypertension;
• creating cosmetic care products.

To grind the underfooted roots into powder will not work purely technically. Therefore, before grinding the roots, you need to dry them in a dryer or in a warm oven at a temperature of no higher than 40 degrees.

Tincture

There are two ways to insist on a skullcap - alcohol or vodka. Both options are good, there are only differences in dosage. Alcohol tincture is a concentrate, so you need to take it in less quantity. Vodka tincture is less concentrated, so for 1 dose you need to take more medicine.

The classic recipe for making alcohol tinctures:

1. 2 tablespoons of dry shredded roots of Scutellaria pour 100 ml of pure medical alcohol.
2. Insist in a dark place for 2 weeks under a closed lid.
3. Keep refrigerated.

If the tincture has become a little muddy, it is necessary to strain it. To avoid this, during the period of insisting, you need to occasionally shake the bottle or jar.

Vodka tincture is prepared according to this recipe:

1. Mix 50 g of plant material and 0.5 l of vodka in a glass container with a lid.
2. Cork and leave in the cellar or refrigerator for 10-15 days.
3. Store in a cool, dark place.

Vodka tincture can retain its properties for up to 2 years, but it should be stored in a hermetically sealed container, in a dark and cool place.

Tea

For preventive purposes and as a general strengthening agent, tea from the Scutellaria baicalensis is used. Cooking it is simple, but the taste of the infused rhizome is not too rich.To complement the taste, aroma, as well as enhance the benefits of plant materials, you can combine Scutellaria with such herbs:

• melissa - to normalize digestion;
• echinacea - from apathy;
• St. John's wort - with ulcers and gastritis;
• Schisandra chinensis - with VSD, meteorological dependence
• rosehip - for diseases of the kidneys and hypertension;
• calamus root - for the treatment of pancreatitis and cholecystitis.

Tea is brewed like this - 1 spoon of chopped plant material is steamed in a cup with boiling water. Tea should be infused for 3-5 minutes, then you can drink it with honey, lemon, jam or regular sugar.

Application in cosmetology

Perennial is used in several lines of Korean anti-aging cosmetics, known worldwide for its effectiveness. This plant is also used in body and hair care products. The substances that are contained in the rhizome, favorably affect the condition of the skin and hair, are able to solve various cosmetic problems.

Here are the results you can expect from using Scutellaria for the beauty of hair and skin:

• elimination of dandruff;
• stimulation of hair growth;
• stop loss;
• restoration and improvement of nutrition of hair follicles;
• skin color improvement, whitening;
• elimination of inflammatory processes;
• acne cure;
• rejuvenation;
• wrinkle smoothing;
• reduction of edema.

Due to such impressive properties, Scutellaria has become popular with connoisseurs of natural appearance care. Effective care products can be made independently.

Dandruff Infusion

With dandruff, you need to treat the scalp. The main cause of this phenomenon is activated fungal infections, as well as an imbalance in Ph. Shlemnik contains antifungal components, normalizes acid-base balance, and also accelerates tissue regeneration.

Skin Compresses

With acne and the presence of boils on the skin, compresses with a strong decoction of plant material will help. You can use compresses only if they do not cause an allergic reaction. First you need to prepare a strong broth - boil 1 tablespoon of rhizome crushed into powder in 200 ml of water for 20 minutes, insist and strain through cheesecloth, folded in several layers. Instructions for the treatment:

• before a compress, remove makeup and completely cleanse the skin;
• moisten with warm infusion a small section of a three-fold sterile bandage;
• lay on problem areas of skin and leave for 20 minutes.

After removing the compress, you do not need to wash your face. You can immediately apply an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory light cream or lotion.

Anti-aging skin mask

To prepare a rejuvenating mask, you will need the following ingredients:

• dry rhizome powder - 1 teaspoon;
• white clay - 1 teaspoon;
• milk - 1 tablespoon.

All ingredients must be mixed and slightly warmed in a microwave or in a water bath. Apply the mixture to the cleansed and steamed skin, gently rubbing it along the massage lines. It is forbidden to use the mixture in the eyelids. Wash off the mask with warm water no earlier than 20 minutes. After applying the mixture, apply a moisturizing or nourishing cream. Repeat the procedure every 3-4 days.

Hair Growth Mask

Fast hair growth, their strengthening and renewal is a reality, even without expensive salon procedures. In this case, the dry rhizome of Scutellaria will help. To prepare a caring mask, it is necessary to grind the raw materials into powder. The advantage of this recipe is that the mask can be prepared immediately for 2 weeks. Ingredients for 1 procedure:

• 2 tablespoons of rhizome powder;
• 1 tablespoon of natural honey;
• 1 tablespoon of castor oil.

If you wish, you can add a couple of capsules of an oil solution of vitamin A and E to the mixture for additional recharge.The mixture must be cooked in a completely dry container, since at the slightest contact with water, a product that can be stored for a long time will not work out. For storage, the mask must be kept in a closed container and in the refrigerator. Instructions for use:

• rub a small amount of the product into the scalp;
• distribute the remains of the comb along the entire length of the hair;
• cover your head with a rubber cap and wrap in a towel;
• rinse off after 1 hour.

After using the mask, it is advisable to dry your hair naturally, without a hairdryer. Frequency of use - 2-3 times a week. The maximum duration of use without interruption is 3 months. After this, it is worth giving the hair a month to rest and you can again start using the herbal remedy to improve their growth and condition.

Contraindications

A dangerous mistake is to consider that plant materials are absolutely safe for the body. Despite the fact that products from Scutellaria baicalensis are natural medicines, nevertheless they can be potentially dangerous for the body. The main cause of harm from herbal remedies is use for contraindications. Scutellaria baicalensis is prohibited in the following diseases and conditions:

• pregnancy and lactation;
• bleeding of various localization;
• peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum in the acute stage;
• hypersensitivity and allergic reactions to this type of plant;
• severe renal impairment;
• urolithiasis disease;
• epilepsy.

In addition, taking medications based on Scutellaria may have side effects. The risk of negative reactions of the body increases with abuse and exceeding the recommended dosage. Common side effects:

• nausea;
• vomiting
• hypotension;
• heartburn;
• dizziness;
• headaches.

To eliminate side effects, it is necessary to temporarily stop taking the medicine and give the body time to remove the excess of active substances - up to 5-7 days. After this, you can resume the course of treatment, but it is advisable to adjust the dosage so that the situation does not recur. In case of an overdose, it is necessary to rinse the stomach, refuse treatment with scutellaria during recovery. In severe cases, you must urgently seek medical help. In the process of treatment, it is important to observe a drinking regimen, since due to the diuretic effect, the body suffers a tremendous loss of fluid.

If you use a medicinal plant according to the rules and observe the recommended dosages, it will only bring benefits to the body. Before using drugs based on Scutellaria baicalensis, it is recommended to consult a doctor or phytotherapist to select an individual treatment regimen and optimal dosage.