The goldenseal plant is a popular remedy in the United States and Canada. Due to its fascinating properties, it is starting to be used in the rest of the American continent and Europe.
Goldenseal Plant Scientific Facts
- Scientific Name: Hydrastis canadensis L.
- Other Names: Eye balm, eye root, ground raspberry, Indian plant, jaundice root, orangeroot, turmeric root, yellowroot, yellow puccoon.
- French: Hydrastis.
- Spanish: Hidrastis.
- Environment: Mountainous and wet forests of North America. It is not found in Europe.
- Description: The plant of the Ranunculaceae family grows from 30 to 40 cm high. Its stems grow an underground root (rhizome)—large, palm-shaped, dark-green leaves. A small flower grows at the tip of its stem.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The rhizome.
Healing Properties
The plant’s rhizome contains various alkaloids (hydrastine and berberine, among others), essential oil, resins, sugars, vitamins A, B, and C, and mineral salts, especially phosphorous. These substances give the plant antiseptic, astringent, hemostatic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is successfully employed in the following cases:
- Nasal, pharyngeal, and bronchial catarrhs. The goldenseal plant effectively regenerates the mucous membranes’ cells, thus diminishing mucus production and the congestion and inflammation accompanying catarrhs. It is applied both internally and externally.
- Excessive menstruation and metrorrhagia (uterus hemorrhages) are constricting effects on the uterus. In these cases, its use must always be under medical control.
- Vaginitis and leukorrhea are applied in irrigations and cleansing.
- Pyorrhea and gingivitis (inflammation of the gums).
- Conjunctivitis (eye irritations) in eye baths.
The goldenseal plant is a potent germ killer. It is suitable for nearly all diseases like echinacea. Combined with any herb, it enhances the effects of the tonic on the specific organs being treated. Combine it with eyebright for the eyes, kola for the brain, cascara sagrada for the lower bowel, and squaw vine for the female genito-urinary system. Incorporate it in douches for vaginal infections, reducing hemorrhoids, and salves for the skin.
Goldenseal primarily acts on the mucous membranes and is beneficial in catarrhal conditions, especially those in the intestines. It can stop sore throat, cold, and flu at the first sign of trouble. This all-around herb is also helpful for ulcers, ovarian and mammary tumors, measles, lymph congestion, liver problems, leukorrhea, inflammations, infections, indigestion, herpes, hemorrhoids, heart weakness, stomach ailments, hay fever, eczema, diabetes, colds, chicken pox, canker sores, bronchitis, bladder diseases, bad breath, asthma, allergies, and alcoholism.
The plant becomes a bowel tonic when combined with cascara sagrada. It can even reduce swollen hemorrhoids as a retention enema. It is also suitable for disorders affecting the vagina, stomach, prostate, and bladder. Small doses of goldenseal can relieve nausea caused by morning sickness during pregnancy. Treat stomach ulcers by combining goldenseal with myrrh. Combine two parts goldenseal and one part wild alum to treat hemorrhoids and prostate issues.
It can also boost the immune system and enhance the effectiveness of insulin. The herb can lower blood pressure, decrease uterine bleeding, regulate menses, and stimulate the central nervous system. Externally, it can be used for wounds, tonsilitis, skin inflammation, ringworm, mouth sores, leukorrhea, herpes sores, eye inflammations, burns, and canker sores.
Goldenseal can treat gum infections or bleeding gums with a toothbrush or as an antiseptic mouthwash. It can also be used as a gargle for throat problems and tonsilitis. The herb can also be used for itchy skin conditions, ringworm, eczema, inflammations, and open sores. It is a primary remedy for all sorts of mucous membrane problems.
The powder is excellent for a stuffed-up nose and nasal catarrh or congestion. Treat ringworm by washing the area with the tea, then sprinkling the powdered root. Prepare a soothing eyewash by combining it with boric acid (one teaspoon powdered root and one teaspoon boric acid to one pint of boiling-hot water); stir; let cool; and pour off the liquid. Add one teaspoon of the liquid to ½ cup water for the eyewash.
WARNING: The goldenseal plant is a potent alkaloid, so it should not be abused or overused. Daily, two or three #00 capsules are adequate and safe for most ailments. Commonly, it would help if you did not use it for more than a week at a time, then switch to using echinacea or another comparable antibiotic herb such as pau d’ arco, myrrh, or chaparral.
Overuse limits the absorption of vitamin B by destroying certain beneficial intestinal bacteria. Use no more than two to three #00 capsules daily for prolonged use. Avoid using large doses if you suffer from hypoglycemia. People with insomnia or high blood pressure should use it sparingly. Consuming the fresh plant can produce inflammation of mucous tissue and ulcerations.
Large doses of goldenseal can contract the uterus. Therefore, it should be avoided by women who have the propensity to miscarry unless it’s for morning sickness; it is used in the following formula: Less than ¼ teaspoon of goldenseal, plus ¼ teaspoon of cloves; the powders taken in gelatin capsules should not go over two capsules daily and taken with spearmint tea.
How to use Goldenseal
Infusion (powdered root): Steep powder until cold. Take one to two teaspoons three to four times daily. Decoction: Simmer for fifteen to thirty minutes, then take one to two teaspoons three to four times daily. Tincture: Take twenty to ninety drops (1/3 to 1-1/2 teaspoons) thrice daily. Powder: Take two to five #0 capsules (10 to 30 grains) three times daily or two to three #00 capsules (five is an average dose) per day.
Frequently Asked Question
I’ve heard the goldenseal plant helps with upper respiratory infections. Is that true?
Evidence for this is mixed. Lab studies suggest possible benefits due to goldenseal’s antimicrobial properties, but there’s little solid research about its effectiveness in humans. It might help ease sore throats associated with colds or the flu but shouldn’t replace proven treatments.
Does the goldenseal plant work against bacterial infections?
In lab studies, berberine, one of goldenseal’s active compounds, shows antibacterial effects. However, it’s poorly absorbed by the body when taking goldenseal orally. Some studies suggest berberine alongside antibiotics might have benefits against bacterial diarrhea, but more research is needed. Goldenseal is NOT a substitute for prescribed antibiotics.
Can the goldenseal plant help with digestive issues?
Historically, it was used for indigestion, constipation, and diarrhea. The evidence is minimal. Berberine might offer mild relief, but other options are likely more effective. If you have frequent or severe digestive problems, consult a doctor.
I have allergies. Can goldenseal be used like an antihistamine?
Unfortunately, no. While goldenseal is sometimes included in allergy formulas, there is no scientific evidence that it treats allergies alone.
Is there any truth to the rumor that goldenseal can mask positive drug tests?
No. This is a myth, as several studies have found that goldenseal does not alter drug test results.
Can the goldenseal plant generally boost the immune system?
It’s a popular idea, but research is limited. Berberine and other goldenseal compounds show potential immune-modulating effects in lab studies. However, translation to real-world benefits in humans isn’t established. Goldenseal won’t replace a healthy diet, sleep, and exercise for maintaining robust immunity.
I’m interested in the goldenseal plant’s anti-inflammatory properties. What’s the best way to use it for that?
Topical use (skin application) might be more effective than oral use for inflammation. Studies are limited, but traditional use includes it in washes and compresses for skin irritation. Do a patch test first to ensure you’re not sensitive to the plant.
Is the goldenseal plant helpful for diabetes?
This area shows some promise. Berberine may benefit lower blood sugar levels and correct insulin sensitivity. Some research suggests it could be as effective as certain diabetes medications. However, don’t self-medicate with goldenseal – talk to your doctor if you have diabetes.
Is the goldenseal plant safe for everyone?
No. the goldenseal plant has potential side effects and interactions. It’s not suitable for infants, pregnant women, or breastfeeding mothers. It can lower blood pressure, so use caution with blood pressure medications. Discuss with your doctor before taking goldenseal if you have any health conditions or take regular medications.
Where can I find reliable information about using the goldenseal plant?
Reputable sources include the National Center for Complementary & Integrative Health (https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/goldenseal), WebMD (https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-943/goldenseal), and Mount Sinai (https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/goldenseal). Always talk to your doctor before taking any herbal supplement.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. Vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 207. Print. [goldenseal plant]
- Vance Ferrell Harold M. Cherne, M.D. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia [Book]. – Altamont, TN: Harvestime Books, 2010. – Vol. Seventh Edition: 7: pp. 161.
- https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/goldenseal
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-of-goldenseal
- https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/goldenseal
- https://www.healthline.com/health/goldenseal-cure-for-everything
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-943/goldenseal
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API