Question
Is it true that bovine scutellaria can treat newborn toxemia? What is its efficacy?
Answer
The claim that newborn infants can be treated for toxemia by consuming bovine scutellaria, or that it can prevent conditions like measles, jaundice, and eczema, has no scientific basis. Bovine scutellaria is indeed a commonly used medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine, known for its ability to clear heat and detoxify, but newborns have a rapid intestinal motility and frequent bowel movements after breastfeeding. Taking bovine scutellaria indiscriminately could likely lead to diarrhea and, in severe cases, dehydration. Moreover, due to its high cost and the risk of purchasing counterfeit products, giving a baby bovine scutellaria could pose serious health risks. Experts caution young parents against blindly following unscientific claims to avoid harming their newborn babies.