Scutellaria baicalensis (Baikal skullcap) exhibits anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-allergic properties attributed to its active constituents. These include the flavonoids baicalein, baicalin, and wogonin, as well as β-sitosterol and benzoic acid.
Scutellaria baicalensis has traditionally been used for upper respiratory infections (The Pharmacology of Chinese Herbs, pp. 385–386). Experimental research has shown that constituents of S. baicalensis can inhibit histamine activity, supporting its traditional use in allergic conditions. Additional studies have demonstrated fungistatic effects, which may be related in part to its benzoic acid content.
Anti-allergic actions of S. baicalensis may involve inhibition of mast cell degranulation and reduced release of inflammatory mediators, potentially through effects on cellular receptors. Animal studies have also demonstrated a bronchodilatory effect in guinea pigs with allergic asthma (Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, pp. 75–76).
