Baicalin
Baikal skullcap flavone glucuronide with GABA-A-modulating anxiolytic action.
Pharmacology
Contents
WHAT IS BAICALIN?
Detailed overview
Baicalin is a flavone glucuronide, the main active compound of the root of Baikal skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis), formed as the 7-O-glucuronide conjugate of the aglycone baicalein. In animal studies it shows anxiolytic and mildly sedative effects: it acts as a positive allosteric modulator of the GABA-A receptor, preferring the α2/α3 subunits at a benzodiazepine-independent site, and therefore reduces anxiety without the drowsiness and muscle relaxation typical of conventional benzodiazepines. It is also a potent antioxidant and NF-κB-inhibiting anti-inflammatory. Its main limitation is poor oral absorption and low bioavailability, and human clinical data are sparse.
Mechanism
GABA-A PAM (α2/α3) + anti-inflammatory
Evidence
Preclinical (animal studies)
Legal status
Dietary supplement / botanical extract
Receptor profile
- GABA-A receptors (α2/α3 subunit)Moderate
- NF-κB inflammatory pathwayModerate
- Oxidative stress / antioxidant actionModerate
- Benzodiazepine-independent GABAergic siteWeak
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 5
- Poor oral absorption and low bioavailability limit the effect
- May potentiate sedative and anxiolytic drugs through GABA-A interaction
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea) at higher doses
- Incomplete human safety profile: mostly animal-derived data
- Theoretical interaction with drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 and UGT enzymes
Contraindications · 4
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: safety not established, avoid
- Concurrent use of sedatives, benzodiazepines or alcohol: additive sedation
- Avoid before surgery due to possible GABAergic and clotting effects
- Not a medicine; a plant flavonoid sold as a supplement, medical supervision advised in chronic illness
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
Studies
Related research and clinical findings
GABA A receptor subtype selectivity underlying selective anxiolytic effect of baicalin
Wang F, Xu Z, Ren L, Tsang SY, Xue H
Anxiolytic-Like Effect of baicalin and its additivity with other anxiolytics
de Carvalho RS, Duarte FS, de Lima TC
Anxiolytic-like effects of baicalein and baicalin in the Vogel conflict test in mice
Liao JF, Hung WY, Chen CF
Brain Uptake of Bioactive Flavones in Scutellariae Radix and Its Relationship to Anxiolytic Effect in Mice
Zhang K, Pan X, Wang F, Ma J, Su G
Biphasic effects of baicalin, an active constituent of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, in the spontaneous sleep-wake regulation
Chang HH, Yi PL, Cheng CH, Lu CY, Chang FC
FAQ
FAQ
Baikal skullcap flavone glucuronide with GABA-A-modulating anxiolytic action.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.