Skullcap

Skullcap as it relates to DILI in Health report: Genetics of Antibiotics-Induced Liver Injury

Skullcap, also known as Scutellaria, is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for its potential health benefits. However, there have been reports linking skullcap to drug-induced liver injury (DILI).

Skullcap and DILI

While skullcap is generally considered safe when used in appropriate doses, there have been rare cases of liver injury associated with its use. DILI is a condition where the liver is damaged as a result of exposure to certain medications or herbal supplements.

It is important to note that the exact mechanism by which skullcap may cause liver injury is not well understood. Some experts believe that certain compounds in skullcap may be toxic to the liver in some individuals, leading to DILI.

Symptoms of DILI

Symptoms of drug-induced liver injury can vary and may include:

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite

Precautions

If you are considering using skullcap or any herbal supplement, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have a history of liver disease or are taking medications that may interact with skullcap. Your healthcare provider can help determine if skullcap is safe for you to use and monitor for any signs of liver injury.

It is also important to purchase skullcap from reputable sources and follow recommended dosages to reduce the risk of potential liver damage.

Overall, while skullcap may offer health benefits, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks, including the rare possibility of drug-induced liver injury.

Supplements for DILI

Here are some dietary supplements related to the content in this report. Click the shopping cart to purchase the supplement from our partners.

  1. Green tea extract

    Contains catechins which may increase oxidative stress and liver cell damage when combined with hepatotoxic antibiotics.

  2. Greater celandine

    Alkaloids like chelidonine may further impair liver function when the organ is under stress from antibiotics.

  3. Chaparral

    Nordamnacanthal is a quinone that could synergistically increase antibiotic liver toxicity through mitochondrial dysfunction.

  4. Germander

    Diterpenoids may amplify antibiotic liver injury by disrupting bile salt export and causing cholestasis.

  5. Mistletoe

    Contains toxic lectins which could worsen immunological reactions or alter detox pathways of antibiotic metabolites.

  6. Skullcap

    Flavonoids may inhibit pathways involved in hepatic metabolism and clearance of antibiotics from the liver.

  7. Valerian

    Isovaltrate and other constituents thought to directly damage cell membranes, potentially worsening antibiotic hepatocellular toxicity.

  8. Kava kava

    Kavalactones like desmethoxyyangonin may inhibit CYP450 liver enzymes important for antibiotic clearance.

  9. St. John's wort

    Hyperforin alters PXR nuclear receptors and could decrease bile acid transport, contributing to antibiotic cholestasis.

  10. Ginseng

    Ginsenosides may inhibit P-glycoprotein transporters important for antibiotic efflux from hepatocytes, allowing accumulation of toxic levels.

  11. Aloe vera

    Anthraquinone glycosides possibly damage cell membranes and worsen antibiotic-mediated liver cell necrosis.

  12. Ashwagandha

    Withanolides thought to cause oxidative stress which synergizes with redox-cycling antibiotic metabolites.

  13. Andrographis

    Diterpene lactones may reduce bile acid secretion and flow, contributing to cholestatic injury.

  14. Noni juice

    Anthraquinones could impair mitochondrial function and increase antibiotic hepatotoxicity.

  15. Peppermint oil

    Menthol interferes with CYP450s and UGTs involved in antibiotic metabolism and clearance.

  16. Kratom

    Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are metabolized in liver and could enhance antibiotic toxicity.

  17. Ephedra

    Ephedrine alkaloids may deplete glutathione and reduce the liver's defense against antibiotic oxidative damage.

It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting any of these supplements. They can have side effects, and some may interact with medications or other supplements you're already taking.
Disclaimer