Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a native American medicinal
plant introduced to early settlers by Cherokee Indians who used it as a wash for
skin diseases and sore eyes. Goldenseal root has acquired a considerable reputation
as a natural antibiotic and as a remedy for various gastric and genitourinary
disorders.
Goldenseal's benefits can be attributed to its alkaloids, especially hydrastine and berberine. The
latter is also responsible for it's characteristic golden color. These alkaloids are strongly
astringent and help reduce inflammation of mucous membranes. Hydrastine has also been reported
to lower blood pressure and stimulate peristalsis, along with being an anti-tussive (relieves coughs).
Berberine and its sulfate, berberine sulfate, have been demonstrated to have anti-cancer activity in
vitro and also have been shown to have anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and immunostimulatory activity, as
well. Berberine has shown marked effects on acute diarrhea and its antibacterial qualities interfere
with the ability of micro-organisms to adhere to the walls of host cells.
Goldenseal has been recommended for a variety of inflamed mucous membranes, including stomach,
intestinal, vaginal and rectal. It has been reported that the plant relieves pains and helps heal wounds
and stop bleeding. In addition, the antibacterial action helps reduce or prevent infection of open
sores. Edgar Cayce recommended goldenseal to assist the lymphatics, circulation,
assimilation and elimination, and regarded it as an antiseptic for the lining
of the stomach. It was sometimes suggested to reduce temperature and achy feelings.
Cayce sometimes referred to goldenseal as "Life Everlasting" and recommended it
to "create a high vibration in the blood supply".
Our Goldenseal root is supplied as a powder in capsules and is wildcrafted in the US. Suggested Usage:
As an herbal dietary supplement, take 2-3 capsules, 2-3 times daily.
Continuous high level consumption of this product for more than 2 weeks of each month is not recommended. Do not use during pregnancy.
