Health Guide

Wogonin

Wogonin is a natural bioactive flavonoid compound, primarily extracted from the roots of the *Scutellaria baicalensis* plant (Chinese Skullcap). While it sounds like a complex chemical, it is essentially a plant nutrient responsible for the herb's traditional medicinal properties. It acts as a powerful 'calming' agent for the body, helping to regulate inflammation, protect the brain, and soothe the nervous system. Think of it as nature's answer to managing stress and protecting your cells from oxidative damage.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Calming Effect Potency (GABA Modulation)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Relative Activity

Compound →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Promotes Calm & Reduces Anxiety: It enhances the activity of GABA, the brain's primary 'brake' pedal, helping to soothe nervous tension without heavy sedation.
Fights Inflammation: It inhibits specific inflammatory pathways (like NF-kB), making it useful for soothing joint discomfort and skin irritation.
Neuroprotection: Acts as an antioxidant in the brain, potentially shielding neurons from damage and supporting memory health.

Deep Dive

Wogonin is best known for its unique ability to balance the central nervous system. Unlike stimulants, it helps modulate the brain's chemistry to promote relaxation and focus. Research suggests it is particularly effective for 'stress-induced' fatigue, helping the body return to a state of homeostasis. It is currently being studied for its potential to support healthy sleep cycles and protect liver function during times of high toxic load.

Natural Food Sources

Wogonin is not found in the typical Western diet. It is concentrated in specific medicinal herbs used in Asian traditional medicine. The most common dietary source is the root of the Chinese Skullcap.

Food / Herb	Part Used	Active Compound
Chinese Skullcap	Root	Wogonin (Highest concentration)
Oregano	Leaves	Trace amounts
Basil	Leaves	Trace amounts

Supplementation

Since Wogonin is not abundant in common fruits or vegetables, it is almost exclusively taken as a supplement. It is often found in 'Stress Support' blends or as a standardized extract of Scutellaria baicalensis. Standard dosages in clinical studies range from 50mg to 200mg daily, but you must follow the specific product label instructions as potency varies wildly.

Top Food Sources

Chinese Skullcap Root

The primary natural source; often boiled into teas or extracted.

Oregano

Contains small amounts, not enough for therapeutic effect.

Basil

Contains small amounts; good for general antioxidant intake.

Wogonin Extract

Standardized supplements (50mg+) are the most reliable source.

Scutellaria Root

Sold dried in herbal shops; used in Chinese herbal formulas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wogonin is a specific active compound found *inside* the Chinese Skullcap plant. When you buy a Skullcap supplement, you are often looking for one that has been standardized to contain a specific percentage of Wogonin.

It promotes 'calmness' rather than sleepiness. While it can help you sleep by reducing anxiety, most users feel relaxed yet focused, rather than sleepy, during the day.

Technically yes, as oregano contains trace amounts. However, you would need to eat an impossible amount of oregano to get the therapeutic doses found in supplements. Supplementation is the only practical route.

Current research suggests it is safe for moderate-term use (several months), but long-term safety data (years) is limited. Cycling it (taking breaks) is a smart strategy.

Safety & Side Effects

Wogonin is generally considered safe when derived from food-grade herbs, but because it is a potent chemical, caution is needed.

Who should avoid it:

Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women: There is insufficient safety data for fetal development.
Surgery Patients: Because it has mild blood-thinning properties, stop taking it at least 2 weeks before surgery.
People on Sedatives: Do not mix with prescription anti-anxiety meds or sleep aids without a doctor's approval, as it can increase sedation.

Side Effects: High doses may cause stomach upset, dizziness, or lethargy.

Scientific References

[1]Wang, Z., et al. (2016). 'Wogonin: A review on its pharmacology and pharmacokinetics.' *European Journal of Pharmacology*.
[2]Huang, Y., et al. (2012). 'Wogonin inhibits proinflammatory cytokine production in LPS-stimulated macrophages.' *International Immunopharmacology*.
[3]Cho, J., et al. (2009). 'Wogonin: A natural flavone with anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.' *Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics*.