Hydrastis canadensis L.
Family- Ranunculaceae
Common names: orangeroot, yellow puccoon.
The goldenseal is so named because its underground rhizome is bright yellow in color and exudes a golden sap. A perennial plant, growing up to 1ft; native to North America, where the dried roots are commonly used in supplements. In the Nineteenth century goldenseal acquired a reputation as a cure-all and was grossly over collected from the wild, hence an endangered species.
The goldenseal seal is cultivated for medicine and textile dye.
Part used: roots
Goldenseal has a long history as a medical herb, and remains a popular herb today that is used by many alternative health practitioners. As early stated, a “cure-all” with diuretic, laxative, stomachic, tonic, astringent, antiseptic, anti hypertensive, anticonvulsant, and sedative properties. The medicinal importance of this plant derives from several alkaloids extracted from the rhizomes, hydrastine, berberine, and canadine. Packed with these chemical properties, goldenseal can help beat the “bug out of your system”! Here’s what I mean:
Oral infections -Goldenseal may help protect against oral infections. Studies have shown that herbal mouth rinses containing goldenseal reduced the growth of bacteria responsible for dental plaque and gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. It has also been noted that using goldenseal as a toothpaste or mouthwash may help soothe inflamed gums. You should definitely try out goldenseal if your gums bleed or become sore or infected. Apart from protecting against infection, goldenseal seal strengthens the tissues of the gums and mouth. Use a swab and paint your gums with goldenseal tincture once or twice daily. Please, be sure to do a patch test before applying on the whole gum.
Canker sores- To relieve the pain of canker sores, make an antiseptic mouth rinse by dissolving ½ Tsp. goldenseal and ¼ Tsp. of sea salt in 1 cup of warm water. Swish and spit 4 x a day.
Cold sore- The herb is an antiviral plant that can treat cold sores. Mix equal quantities of goldenseal and echinacea extracts in water or juice and drink it 3 x a day until the sore heals.
STDs and intimate protection- In addition to oral protection, goldenseal extracts are found in treatments for feminine cleansing products and sexually transmitted disease (STD). If you have vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina), make goldenseal tea. It is a powerful antibiotic and drinking 2-3 cups daily will help flush out bacteria. Please do not use it during pregnancy. Combine goldenseal with echinacea to boost your immune system, if you are down with a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Infuse equal parts of both in a cup of hot water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink 2-3 x daily.
Urinary tract and yeast infections- If you have recurrent UTIs and yeast infections get a mix of herbal extracts containing goldenseal extract. Goldenseal’s berberine may help protect the body against various bacteria and fungi. The berberine tends to stop bacteria from sticking to the walls of your bladder, potentially preventing or helping treat a UTI. It is also believed to keep fungi that are naturally present in the human body, from multiplying in excess.
Folliculitis- The combination of goldenseal and echinacea kills the bacteria that cause folliculitis (an infection of the hair follicles) and keeps the infection from returning. Antibacterial shampoos, gels or creams can help control the condition. Buy an ointment that contains both herbs and apply it several times a day until the irritation disappears.
Skin irritation/allergies – The extract has been used as a topical treatment for allergies and skin infections. Many potent skin care products like washes, shampoos, soaps, skin lotions, have goldenseal as their active ingredient. If you have a rash that’s wet and “weeping”, here’s some help: wash your skin, then dab with a towel until dry. Thereafter, gently dust the affected parts with goldenseal powder to prevent secondary infections. This gives soothing relief and quick healing.
Bites and stings- Insect bites and stings may cause minor irritation that can be painful, itchy or swollen. The severity of the bites and stings varies depending on the type of insect involved and the sensitivity of the person. If an insect has beaten you, try not to scratch the affected area to avoid infection. A mixture of goldenseal and clay (e.g bentonite) is just the thing for painful insect bites or stings. Golden seal is well known for healing skin, and when the powder is mixed with a bit of clay and enough water to make a light paste, it makes a perfect poultice for easing pain and inflammation.
Headaches- Humans have been getting sinus headaches for ages, and they have been easing them with herbal remedies for almost as long. Goldenseal has always helped, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and anti congestive properties. Try 125 mg in capsule form twice daily.
Goldenseal is also used to treat heavy or painful periods, liver conditions, fevers, indigestion, sinus infections, pneumonia, colds, flu, sore throat, tuberculosis and many other conditions.
Goldenseal supplements are readily available in a wide range of forms, including capsules, powders, lotions, tinctures, drops, sprays, eyewashes, and feminine hygiene products. They’re currently consumed in various dosages; consult a natural health practitioner for best dosages.
Caution: Goldenseal might increase the risk for bleeding. People who take goldenseal should stop at least 2 weeks before surgery.