Golden Seal

What is Golden Seal?

Goldenseal, with its thick yellow rootstock, is also known as golden root. The roots of this herb were formerly used as medicine by the American Indians of the Northeast who called it Yellow Root. They used this herb as eyewash, as a treatment for skin wounds, and for such ailments as sore throat and digestive complaints.

Goldenseal has been called “the poor man’s ginseng” because like ginseng it is said to be good for treating just about everything. Also like ginseng, it is goldenseal’s root that is used to make herbal medicine. Goldenseal’s yellow root contains berberine, a chemical that provides antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal protection.

Goldenseal has long been used to treat diarrhoea. Berberine helps stimulate the white blood cells to kill bacteria that can cause diarrhoea, including E. coli, salmonella, and cholera. Goldenseal also helps prevent the proliferation of Candida albicans and Chlamydia trachomatis in the vagina.

Research also suggests that goldenseal may help stimulate white blood cells to kill cancerous tumour cells. It is also thought to help in treating liver damage in alcoholics.

Goldenseal tea is said to be an effective treatment for canker sores and periodontal disease when used as a mouthwash, because it helps destroy harmful bacteria in the mouth. It is often recommended by herbalists for treatment of eye diseases, including staph and trachoma.

Side Effects and Warnings of Golden Seal

Goldenseal is not for long-term use, and should be avoided by people that have high blood pressure since large doses have been known to raise blood pressure.

Goldenseal should never be taken in anything but micro-doses. Overdosing on goldenseal has reportedly caused severe toxicity in some individuals, inducing convulsions, respiratory failure, and even death.

Women who are pregnant should not take this medicine, as some studies have shown it can stimulate uterine contractions. You should never use dietary supplements with Golden Seal as an ingredient without consulting with your doctor.

Bookmark this:

Bookmark this page