Other Names: Eye Balm, Eye Root, Goldsiegel, Ground Raspberry, Indian Dye, Indian Turmeric, Jaundice Root, Yellow Paint, Yellow Puccoon, Yellow Root.
Scientific Names: Hydrastis Canadensis
Goldenseal root is thought to have antibiotic properties and it's often packaged with echinacea.
The active ingredients in Goldenseal are the alkaloids hydrastine and berberine which are said to kill many types of bacterial and viral infections, reduce inflammation of the gastric system and relieve congestion. Herbalists say that Berberine aids digestion and has a sedative action on nerves. But the American Cancer Society says there is no evidence to support these claims.
Despite the American Cancer Society's statements my own personal experience has been that using echinacea WITH goldenseal works better for me than echinacea without it. And many people with cancer are using goldenseal for alternative therapies.
Besides goldenseal's claimed antibacterial properities and, important for anti-aging, anti-inflammatory properties, it is said to have astringent properties as well. Goldneseal is used to treat infections of all kinds, inflammations, congestion of lungs, sinuses and respiratory system, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, stomach problems, parasites and ulcers. Goldenseal is of interest to those with cancer because historically some herbalists claimed it stimulated the immune system.
Important Goldenseal Facts in a nutshell
Be careful with goldenseal, it's potent. Hypoglycemic people and people with heart problems may want to try something different. (My mother's heart raced after taking goldenseal for the first time.)
Goldenseal is often taken with echinacea because of its actions on inflammation and infections.
Goldenseal probably shouldn't be taken for more than a week at a stretch.
In high doses goldenseal can irritate mucous membranes and skin - mouth, throat, etc.
It might be a good idea to take extra B complex when you are doing a Goldenseal "round" (therapy) becaue high doses may interfere with vitamin B metabolism.
As always and with any supplement, if you develop a rash or any physical problem you might be having an allergic reaction to the herb and would do well to consult a physician.
