Benefits of GoldensealThere are many wonderful, health benefits of goldenseal, although, it's use is somewhat controversial.
What is Goldenseal? Goldenseal is a small perennial plant that grows between 6-12 inches. The rootstock is thick and knotted; the stem is purplish. The goldenseal leaf is hairy with double-toothed lobes. Each plant produces a single orange-red berry and a small greenish white flower.z Goldenseal is native to North America, but is less common and populous than it used to be 14 due to excessive harvesting by humans. It is now designated an endangered species by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. z The Native Americans used goldenseal extensively for medicinal purposes. 14,z The Cherokee Indians used it to stain their faces and clothes yellow. This kept them from being identified as Native Americans. 14 Goldenseal can also be used to dye wool, silk and cotton. 14 The Cherokee also used it as a cure for cancer (in combination with other herbs) and later on the pioneers used it as an eye wash, and in the treatment of wounds, rashes and mouth sores. 14 Recently, goldenseal is being used for morning sickness (although its safety in pregnancy is questionable), gastric upset, internal hemorrhage, to stimulate the appetite, increase bile secretion, as a laxative, to treat ringworm, urinary issues, uterine issues, 14 and goiter. 14 Other benefits of goldenseal include its use in fighting dysentery, cholera, and giardiasis. 6 The most common commercially available form of goldenseal is goldenseal powder, which is frequently encapsulated. It is also frequently sold combined with echinacea, especially in the form of a tea. Echinacea & Goldenseal Tea One of the most significant benefits of goldenseal is its effect on the mucous membranes. It is a mucous membrane "alterative". That means it increases mucous flow in membranes with inadequate flow, while decreasing flow in mucous membranes where the flow is excessive. 14 Hydrastine is the active ingredient in goldenseal; it has minor effects on the circulation and muscle tone in the uterus. 14 Another constituent of goldenseal is canadine which acts as a mild sedative and muscle relaxant. 14 Furthermore, goldenseal extracts have been shown to lower blood sugar levels. 14. A third component of goldenseal is berberine which has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. z Goldenseal Side Effects In large doses, the active constituents of goldenseal, hydrastine and berberine are toxic. Do not eat the fresh plant, as doing so may inflame the mucous membranes of the mouth. 14 Other possible side effects of large doses of goldenseal include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory failure, miscarriage and the sensation of burning skin. In extreme cases, paralysis and death may occur. The majority of studies conducted on the side effects of large doses of goldenseal were done with the individual constituents, not goldenseal itself. These constituents do act differently when combined in the whole plant, as opposed to being taken individually. z Warnings: Do NOT use goldenseal while pregnant.z Do NOT use goldenseal if you have high blood pressure. 4 If you are breastfeeding goldenseal is giving a plant safety rating of 'C'. Moderate potential for toxicity, mainly dose related. Seek an expert herbalist as well as a lactation consultant before using. Consider using safer herbs. 6 Do not give goldenseal to children under age 3, or if a ragweed allergy is present. 1 It is probably a good idea not to use goldenseal on a long-term basis, and instead use it on a short-term basis for a specific ailment. Benefits of Goldenseal: home remedies for allergies, anal fissures, bee sting treatment, boil home remedies, natural cold remedies, canker sore home remedy, cold sores, gingivitis, jock itch, leg ulcers, pink eye home remedies, pinworms, home remedies for poison ivy, rashes, ringworm, sinus infection home remedies, home remedies for sore throat, stomach flu symptoms, styes, home remedies for whitening teeth, urinary tract infection home remedy, vomiting, wounds, home remedies for yeast infections.
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