Goldenseal Root (Hydrastis canadensis) has been used to treat diarrhea and as an antiseptic. Goldenseal contains the plant alkaloid, berberine, historically used in both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Goldenseal can be applied topically for rashes, ulcers, wound infections, itching, eczema, acne, dandruff, ringworm, herpes blisters, and cold sores. It is used as a mouthwash for sore gums and mouth. It has also been used as an eyewash for eye inflammation and conjunctivitis, or "pink eye". It is good for inflammations of all kinds.
The most well-known alkaloid contained in this amazing herb is berberine, the component that gives
Goldenseal its yellow/gold color, bitter taste and some of its therapeutic effects. The herb has proven to be an effective antibacterial,
antifungal,
antiviral, and
antiparasitic herb. This herb is often used in natural medicine to build immune system and rid the body of toxins.
Native to areas with rich, moist soil, Goldenseal is a member of the buttercup family. Native Americans revered this plant for its medicinal, cultural, and practical uses. The Researchers, enamored with this discovery, used purified forms of the crude herb known in the commercial market as hydrochlorates of the alkaloid berberine. These preparations did not yield the same results as the concentrated whole plant extract and were soon abandoned.
