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Goldenseal
Prepared by Susan A. Latta
What are the folklore uses of
goldenseal?
Traditionally, goldenseal was used to
strengthen the immune system, as an anti-inflammatory, as an antibiotic, and
to treat urinary tract infections. The herb also was used as a treatment for
skin disease and as a wash for sore eyes.
What is goldenseal?
Goldenseal is made from the roots of a
small forest plant. It is a native American drug used by the Cherokee. Its
active compounds are isoquinoline alkaloids, which include hydrastine,
berberine, and tetrahydroberberine.
What are the proposed uses of
goldenseal?
The herb may have antibacterial and
amoebicidal characteristics, and it may help in treating canker sores. It also
has been known to relieve indigestion, stimulate secretion of saliva, and
increase appetite. Goldenseal may have a minor effect on circulation, on the
central nervous system, and may decrease uterine bleeding.
How effective is goldenseal?
Recent clinical studies addressing the
safety and effectiveness of ingesting goldenseal have found no research-based
medicinal uses. Berberine, an active compound, is what gives the herb its
antibacterial and amoebicidal characteristics. There is no convincing evidence
that goldenseal is effective when taken internally, and it is perhaps only
mildly effective as a local treatment.
Studies have found the tea may be useful
as a mouthwash to relieve canker sores and cracked or bleeding lips. The
active compounds appear to have some mild antiseptic qualities.
Some herbal merchandisers suggest that
goldenseal tea prevents detection of morphine in urine tests after heroin use.
There is no scientific evidence that this claim is true: Goldenseal does not
prevent morphine detection, nor does it eliminate the drug from the body.
What are the side effects of
goldenseal?
Little research is available, but
goldenseal can cause nausea and vomiting if taken in large amounts. Consult
your physician before taking it, and do not take it if you are pregnant.
What are the recommended
forms and dosages of goldenseal?
Goldenseal can be found in capsule,
volatile oil, or tea form. Tea made from two teaspoons full of the herb in one
cup of water can be used as a mouthwash. This mouthwash may alleviate pain and
promote healing. Repeat therapeutic mouthwash three to four times daily. For a
mouthwash that will treat a sore throat, pour a cup of hot water over a
teaspoon of the dried herb. Cool the tea until lukewarm, then use as a gargle.
Goldenseal may be impure because of added foreign or inferior substances.
Conclusion
Goldenseal is most likely effective when
applied directly to the skin or oral tissues to aid healing of infected cuts
or as a gargle.
Sources:
Tyler, V. 1993. The Honest Herbal. The
Haworth Press, Binghamton, N.Y. 3rd
edition, pp. 159-161.
Tyler, V. 1994. Herbs of Choice. The
Haworth Press, Binghamton, N.Y. p.
162.
The Downside of Some Popular Herbs, Tufts
University Health and Nutrition Letter, March
1998. (16) 1. p. 6.
Kansas State University
The information in this
fact sheet is for educational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for
advice from your health care physician.
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