Goldenseal

Goldenseal Benefits

Goldenseal's chemical makeup includes berberine, an anti-bacterial compound. When berberine has been studied by researchers, it was found to be effective at killing candida, which causes yeast infections, as well as a number of parasites, like Giardia and tapeworms.

Berberine is also thought to help white blood cells fight infections. As a result, the immune system becomes stronger. This ingredient is used by practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine as a treatment for diarrhea and dysentery and heart failure. 

Goldenseal is an ingredient that is commonly used in preparing herbal remedies for upper respiratory issues, such as colds, the flu and hay fever. It may help to soothe a sore throat, which can accompany other upper respiratory tract infections

Due to its disinfectant properties, this herb has also been used to treat minor wounds and fungal infections of the skin. Goldenseal is also a treatment for conjunctivitis, sinusitis and urinary tract infections.

Goldenseal Forms and Recommended Dosage

Goldenseal is available in a tablet form, as well as capsules that contain the supplement in a powder form. It is also marketed as a liquid, and it's not uncommon to find goldenseal and echinacea combined in a single product. Goldenseal can also be found as an ointment or cream to treat skin conditions.

For adults, the recommended daily dosage of goldenseal in a capsule or tablet is 500-1,000 mg, taken up to three times a day. For liquid goldenseal, the standard adult dosage is 30-120 mg, up to three times a day.

• Minor wounds: If the herb is being used to treat cuts, scrapes, skin irritations or acne, pour liquid goldenseal on a clean cloth and place it on the affected part of the skin.
• Eye Infections: To treat an eye infection, mix 1/2 tsp of goldenseal and 1/4 tsp of salt with one cup of sterile water to make an eye wash. Strain out any particles in the mixture before use.
• Sore throat: The same solution (1 cup of warm water, 1/4 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of goldenseal powder) can also be used as a mouthwash for a sore throat or gums. If it solution turns cloudy, this is a sign that bacteria has started to grow in the container, and it should be discarded promptly. Goldenseal can also be brewed into a tea to treat mouth or gum irritations.
• Vaginal irritation: To prepare a douche to treat vaginal irritation, combine one cup of warm water with 1/2 tsp of goldenseal (or the contents of one goldenseal capsule) and 1/4 tsp of salt. Let the ingredients settle and strain out any particles before using it.

Goldenseal Precautions and Interactions

Before using any type of herbal supplement, discuss your plans with your health care provider. They can interact with medications (prescription and over the counter), as well as other supplements.

Goldenseal may reduce the effectiveness of tetracycline, which is an antibiotic. It's possible that taking goldenseal may increase the risk of bleeding for patients who are taking blood thinners, such as Aspirin or Warfarin.

A person who has been diagnosed with high blood pressure, liver or heart disease should consult with a physician before taking goldenseal. Goldenseal is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is reported to cause brain damage in newborns and therefore should not be used with infants at all.

Goldenseal can cause irritation to the skin, throat, mouth or vagina. If a goldenseal douche has been used and symptoms have not improved or worsen after a couple of days, see a doctor. Taking it can also cause a heightened sensitivity to sunlight, so be sure to use a good quality sunscreen while using this supplement.

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