Skullcap is a type of herbal supplement. It is a perennial herb (Scutellaria lateriflora) that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Native Americans have also used Skullcap for certain medical conditions. It is often used for the treatment of a variety of ailments, such as anxiety and insomnia. It is also commonly used as a sedative. As with the majority of dietary supplements and medicines, there are some side effects of Skullcap.
Common Side Effects
There are a couple of relatively common side effects of Skullcap, which include increased body temperature and muscle aches. Most of the time, these side effects subside rapidly, but if they are particularly persistent or if they intensify with time, you should notify your doctor regarding the matter.
Serious Side Effects
The majority of severe side effects of Skullcap occur as a result of extremely high dosages of the herb. If you experience any serious side effects of the supplement, you need to get emergency medical assistance as soon as possible. These side effects include extreme drowsiness, irregular pulse, feeling giddy, mental slowing, confusion, disorientation, a state of stupor, and convulsions.
Allergic Reactions
Severe allergic reactions to Skullcap are rare, but can happen occasionally. If you think that you are experiencing an allergic reaction to the herb, you need to get immediate medical assistance. Some signs of allergic reaction include trouble breathing, skin rash, breaking out into hives, swelling of the throat or the mouth, wheezing, and itching.
Liver Damage
Liver damage is a serious and potentially very harmful side effect of Skullcap. If you notice any signs of liver damage, you need to get immediate medical help. Some symptoms of liver issues include elevated levels of liver enzymes (which you can find out about through a blood test), yellowing of the skin or the eyes (also known as jaundice), and pain in the upper right of the abdomen.
Caution
Skullcap is not necessarily appropriate or safe for everybody. It is vital to consult your doctor before taking this herbal supplement, and make sure that your doctor is fully aware of your medical history, allergies, and any conditions that you might presently have. This is especially important for those with epilepsy, any seizure-related disorders, liver disease (like cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatitis), and kidney disease (like renal failure).
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