Botanical:  Hydrastis canadensis 

Other common names:  Eye Root, Indian Dye, Yellow Indian Paint, Yellow Puccoon, Yellowroot, Ground Raspberry, Orange Root, Indian Turmeric, Eye Balm, Jaundice Root

Goldenseal is immensely popular as an immune booster and antibiotic that is taken at the onset of a cold to help prevent further symptoms.  Often called Echinacea's partner, Goldenseal, is said to help stimulate the body's resistance to infection and is another "must have" herb for your home.

Country of Origin: United States.

Beneficial Uses:
Goldenseal Root has a reputation for being a natural antibiotic.  Used at the first sign of a cold, flu or sore throat, it may stop further symptoms from developing.  The berberine content in Goldenseal possesses strong antibiotic and antiseptic activity against a wide variety of bacteria, including staph and fungi, combating vaginal inflammations, sore throat and bladder and intestinal infections.

As an antibacterial, Goldenseal is thought to further fight skin infections, including boils and skin ulcers (when used topically and internally) and is also an antiseptic mouthwash (fighting sore throat).  In treating periodontal disease, Goldenseal destroys the bacteria that cause the disease and relieves inflamed gums.

Goldenseal Root is an immensely popular herb that has long been used as an immune enhancer and a body cleanser that promotes healthy glandular functions.  In laboratory studies, the berberine in Goldenseal was thought to increase blood flow to the spleen and stimulate the activity of macrophages, blood cells that are an important part of the immune system.  The berberine may also increase the secretion of bile.  In regulating healthy glands, the herb is said to be of overall benefit to the liver, pancreas, spleen, thyroid and lymphatic system.

Because Goldenseal is thought to increase the flow of digestive enzymes and is considered an effective herb for improving overall digestion and easing disorders of the digestive tract, including heartburn (particularly when it is associated with emotional tension), inflamed peptic ulcers, constipation and indigestion.  Several early Native American tribes also used Goldenseal extensively for treating digestive problems.

Goldenseal, sometimes called "King of the Mucous Membranes" is thought to have a soothing effect on inflamed mucous membranes and, as such, has been thought to help the respiratory system (by easing congestion), chronic inflammation of the colon, rectum and hemorrhoids.

Goldenseal is sometimes used in the treatment of "female problems" and helps to regulate the menses.  The herb has been used to arrest bleeding from the uterus and profuse menstruation, and it is also believed to cause uterine contractions.

The berberine content in Goldenseal Root is thought to be effective in treating diarrhea due to toxic pathogens such as cholera.

Berberine (found in Barberry, Goldenseal, Oregon Grape and the roots and bark of a number of plants) is now the focus of attention for use in diabetic care.  In a report from Medical News Today (Diabetes Chinese Medicine, it would have to be evaluated following the defined clinical trials process.

Contraindications:
Pregnant or nursing women should not use Goldenseal nor any other herb containing berberine. Goldenseal Root Herbal Supplement may limit the efficacy of anticoagulants (aspirin, blood thinners, Coumadin, etc.), and may also interfere with tetracycline antibiotics. Excessive use (many times the recommended dosage) may cause vomiting, diarrhea, diarrhea, lethargy, skin, eye or kidney irritation, nosebleed, lowered blood pressure and lowered heart rate.  Because Goldenseal may lower blood sugars, people with diabetes should use it only under the supervision of a physician.

Do not use Goldenseal if you have a glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency without consulting a doctor.  Those who suffer hyperthyroid conditions, glaucoma, high blood pressure, gallbladder or cardiovascular disease or epilepsy should only use this product when under a doctor's care.  Goldenseal should not be taken for prolonged periods; it can be poisonous if used too much.  Do not take goldenseal on a daily basis for more than one week at a time.