Research progress on the hepatoprotective active components and mechanisms of Scutellaria baicalensis

WU Hao; LIU Xiaoqian; ZHU Riran

doi:10.13506/j.cnki.jpr.2025.08.010

Abstract：Scutellaria baicalensis,a widely utilized traditional Chinese medicine,is recognized for its properties in clearing heat and drying dampness,as well as eliminating fire and detoxifying the body.Its primary active constituents encompass flavonoids,flavonol glycosides,volatile oils,and polysaccharides,with flavonol glycosides,particularly baicalin and wogonoside,being the most significant.Extensive researches by numerous scientists have delved into the efficacy of Scutellaria baicalensis in addressing liver diseases.Studies indicate that the flavonoid and flavonol glycoside components within Scutellaria baicalensis exhibit notable therapeutic benefits in managing viral hepatitis,alcoholic liver disease,non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD),non-alcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH),cirrhosis,hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),and drug-induced liver injury.These compounds effectively lower serum transaminase levels in animal models of liver injury,mitigate hepatic pathological alterations,and diminish the intensity of inflammatory reactions,thereby contributing to liver health preservation.The underlying mechanisms are multifaceted,primarily comprising anti-oxidative,anti-inflammatory,anti-fibrotic actions,as well as lipid metabolism modulation and immune regulation.Such research outcomes furnish a robust theoretical foundation and promising prospects for the clinical application of Scutellaria baicalensis in liver disease treatment.This paper aimed to systematically review the active components of Scutellaria baicalensis along with their potential mechanisms in hepatic protection to provide valuable insights for clinical applications of Scutellaria baicalensis in hepatoprotection and the development of novel hepatoprotective agents.