Skullcap

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

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is a medicinal herb that has been traditionally used for its calming and sedative properties. 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. Symptoms of DILI can include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain.

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 high doses or in susceptible individuals.

Precautions

If you are considering using skullcap for its medicinal properties, it is important to do so under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Be sure to follow recommended dosages and monitor for any signs of liver injury while taking skullcap.

If you experience any symptoms of liver injury while taking skullcap, such as jaundice or abdominal pain, it is important to stop taking the herb and seek medical attention immediately.

Overall, while skullcap can be a beneficial herb for certain conditions, it is important to be aware of the potential risk of liver injury and to use it cautiously and responsibly.

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.
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