Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis) is a perennial herb also known as Yellow root, Orange root, Puccoon, Ground raspberry or Wild curcuma. It is native to South-eastern Canada and North-eastern United States. It can be distinguished by its thick, yellow knotted rootstock. The plant bears 2 palmate, hairy leaves with 5-7 double-toothed lobes in the late spring. It bears a single berry like a large raspberry with 10-30 seeds in the summer.
Here are few Medicinal Benefits of Goldenseal:
- Herbalists consider goldenseal an alterative, anti-catarrhal, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, bitter tonic, laxative, and muscular stimulant. They recommend goldenseal for gastritis, colitis, duodenal ulcers, loss of appetite and liver disease.
- Goldenseal is very bitter. It stimulates the appetite and aids digestion, and often stimulates bile secretion.
- Goldenseal is used as an expectorant. It also has strong activity against a variety of bacteria, yeast, and fungi, such as Escherichia coli and Candida.
- It is used for infections of the mucus membranes, including the mouth, sinuses, throat, the intestines, stomach, urinary tract and vagina.
- Goldenseal is used for minor wound healing, bladder infections, fungal infections of the skin, colds & flu, and for sinus and chest congestion.
- Goldenseal is also applied to wounds and canker sores, and is used as a mouthwash for sore gums, mouth, and throat.
Side Effects and Caution:
- Goldenseal should not be taken by pregnant women. One of goldenseal’s chief constituents, berberine, has been reported to cause uterine contractions and to increase levels of bilirubin.
- Goldenseal should not be used by people with high blood pressure. Those with heart conditions should only use goldenseal under the supervision of a health professional.
- Side effects are rare, but include irritation of the mouth and throat, nausea, increased nervousness, and digestive problems.
- Goldenseal should not be given to infants and young children.
- Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use before taking goldenseal. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
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