Baicalin

PhytochemicalFlavonoidBest with a meal

What is it

Baicalin is a flavonoid glycoside found primarily in the root of Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis), known in Traditional Chinese Medicine as Huang Qin. It is the glycosylated form of baicalein and is widely used as a herbal supplement for liver, immune, and inflammatory support.

Evidence for 4 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Inflammation and immune support

Limited Evidence

Multiple preclinical and small clinical studies suggest baicalin reduces inflammatory markers and has antimicrobial properties. Larger human trials are needed for definitive claims.

Liver protection

Limited Evidence

Animal studies and some clinical reports suggest hepatoprotective effects in viral hepatitis and chemical-induced liver injury. Evidence is more developed in Asian medical literature.

Antiviral activity (including respiratory viruses)

Mixed Evidence

Preclinical studies show activity against various viruses including influenza and coronaviruses. Clinical evidence in humans is limited.

Anxiety and sleep

Mixed Evidence

Animal models suggest GABAergic effects. Human data on Scutellaria baicalensis specifically for anxiety are limited, though related Scutellaria species (S. lateriflora) have more anxiety research.

How it works

Baicalin consists of baicalein attached to glucuronic acid. After ingestion, intestinal bacteria hydrolyze baicalin to release baicalein, which is then absorbed and partially re-glucuronidated in enterocytes and the liver. This complex enterohepatic recirculation contributes to relatively low and variable systemic bioavailability of baicalin itself but allows for sustained exposure to baicalein. In preclinical studies, baicalin and baicalein have shown a broad range of activities including anti-inflammatory (NF-kB and inflammatory cytokine suppression), antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects. They appear to inhibit several inflammatory enzymes including 12-lipoxygenase. Some animal models suggest anxiolytic effects via GABA receptor modulation. Human clinical evidence is more limited but suggests benefit in inflammatory conditions, mild liver protection, and adjunctive use in viral illnesses.

Dosage

There is no RDA. Standardized baicalin supplements typically provide 100 to 500 mg per dose, often within Scutellaria root extracts standardized to a percentage of baicalin (often 80 to 95 percent). Clinical doses vary widely; traditional decoctions of Huang Qin use 3 to 10 grams of dried root.

When and how to take it

Baicalin is typically taken with meals, often split into two or three doses through the day for sustained exposure. Slightly sedating in some users; if drowsy, take in the evening. Avoid combining with alcohol due to liver concerns.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Standardized Scutellaria baicalensis extract

Typically standardized to 80 to 95 percent baicalin. Used in most modern supplements.

Variable absorption; enterohepatic recirculation extends exposure.

Whole Huang Qin (Chinese skullcap root)

Used in traditional Chinese decoctions and granule preparations.

Lower baicalin concentration but with full root spectrum.

Safety

Generally well tolerated. Common side effects include GI upset, drowsiness, and headache. Rare cases of liver injury have been reported with Scutellaria-containing products, though these may relate to other Scutellaria species (S. lateriflora) or contaminants rather than baicalin itself. Pregnancy safety data are limited. No formal Tolerable Upper Intake Level has been established.

Who should be cautious

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid due to limited safety data. People with liver disease should consult a clinician (rare hepatotoxicity reports). Those on warfarin, antidiabetic medications, or immunosuppressants should discuss with a clinician before use.

Interactions

Baicalin may interact with cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP3A4, CYP2C9) and affect drug metabolism. May interact with antibiotics (some additive antimicrobial effect), antidiabetic drugs (mild hypoglycemic effect), and immunosuppressants. May enhance bleeding risk with anticoagulants.

Frequently asked questions

Is baicalin the same as baicalein?⌄

Baicalin is the glucuronide (glycoside) form; baicalein is the aglycone (without the sugar). They are interconverted in the body, with baicalin being more common in plants and baicalein being more bioavailable systemically.

Is Chinese skullcap safe?⌄

Standardized Scutellaria baicalensis at typical doses is generally well tolerated. Rare hepatotoxicity has been reported, mostly with American skullcap (S. lateriflora) or contaminated products. Discuss with a clinician if you have liver disease.

What is baicalin used for?⌄

Traditional Chinese Medicine uses Huang Qin (rich in baicalin) for inflammation, infections, and liver support. Modern supplements often target inflammation, immune function, and antioxidant support.

References

Baicalin on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Baicalin on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Baicalin (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.