Goldenseal

Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis), one of today’s most popular herbs, has many different medicinal uses. These uses are derived from its many constituents, including the alkaloids berberine and hydrastine. It is important to note, however, that prolonged use of goldenseal can decrease your body’s absorption of the B vitamins. Therefore, do not take goldenseal daily for more than two weeks.

Functions of goldenseal

• Boosts immune system
• Can treat sore or inflamed gums
• Cleans and treats mucous membranes
• Eliminates toxins from your body
• Fights fungi, infection, and yeast
• Flushes and cleans your systems
• Has antibacterial properties
• Helps digestion
• Is an antibiotic
• Is an anti-inflammatory
• Kills pathogens in your body
• Promotes functioning capacities of many major organs
• Relieves congestion
• Stimulates antibodies

Recommended Dosage

Goldenseal can be taken orally – usually as wither a capsule, tea, or liquid extract – or used as a topical cream. You should take or use 250 to 500 milligrams, two or three times a day. Do not use for longer than two weeks. Then, allow a break of at least two weeks.

Side effects and contraindications

Do not take goldenseal if you are pregnant or nursing or have heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Side effects of goldenseal are uncommon. However, prolonged use can decrease your body’s absorption of the B vitamins, as well s the effectiveness of doxycycline and other tetracycline antibiotics. Also, large doses of goldenseal can be toxic. If you experience any of these side effects, stop all consumption and use of goldenseal. Anxiety, hypertension, respiratory failure, diarrhea, nausea, and seizures.

Disease / Disorders that Goldenseal Can Treat or Protect Against

Alcohol-related liver disease
Allergies
Arthritis
Atherosclerosis
Bladder infection
Canker sores
Cardiac arrhythmias
Colds
Constipation
Diarrhea
Eczema
Indigestion
Inflammation
Psoriasis
Sore throat
Sores
Stomach problems
Vaginitis
Wounds
Yeast infections