Goldenseal rOOT
Cleanses, Calms, Prevents and Soothes!
Goldenseal is one of the most popular herbs sold on the American market and
has recently gained a reputation as a herbal antibiotic and immune system
enhancer. American Indians used goldenseal as a medication for inflammatory
internal conditions such as repiratory, digestive and genito-urinary tract
inflammation induced by allergy or infection. The Cherokee used the roots as a
wash for local inflammations, a decoction for general debility, dyspepsia, and
to improve appetite. The Iroquois used a decoction of the root for whooping
cough, diarrhea, liver disease, fever, sour stomach, flatulence, pneumonia, and
with whiskey for heart trouble. They also prepared a compound infusion with
other roots for use as drops in the treatment of earache and as a wash for sore
eyes.
It was not until 1798 that its medicinal virtues began to attract attention.
From then on its reputation as a powerful healing herb spread, both in England
and America, and by about 1850 it had became an important article of commerce.
It was popularly used as a bitter stomach digestive (to help stimulate digestion
and improve appetite), to treat skin inflammations, and those of the eyes such
as conjunctivitis. It was also used for inflammation of the mucous membranes of
the throat and digestive system. It?s traditional uses also include the
treatment of peptic ulcers, gastritis, dyspepsia and colitis. It is said to
stimulate appetite and generally have a toning effect on the whole body has also
been used for anorexia nervosa. It is also said to be effective for treatment of
catarrhal conditions of the upper respiratory tract and inflammations of the
urinary tract.
Goldenseal's numerous uses are attributed to its antibiotic,
anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It soothes irritated mucus
membranes aiding the eyes, ears, nose and throat. Taken at the first signs of
respiratory problems, colds or flu, Goldenseal helps can help to prevent further
symptoms from developing. It has also been used to help reduce fevers, and
relive congestion and excess mucous.
Goldenseal cleanses and promotes healthy glandular functions by increasing
bile flow and digestive enzymes, therefore regulating healthy liver and spleen
functions. It can relieve constipation and may also be used to treat infections
of the bladder and intestines as well.
Goldenseal contains calcium, iron, manganese, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin
E, B-complex, and other nutrients and minerals. The roots and rhizomes of
goldenseal contain many isoquinoline alkaloids, including hydrastine, berberine,
canadine, canadaline, and l-hydrastine as well as traces of essential oil, fatty
oil and resin. It is believed that the high content of these alkaloids gives its
antibiotic, anti-infective and immune stimulating qualities.
In particular it is the alkaloid berberine that is most likely responsible
for Goldenseal's effectiveness against bacteria, protozoa, fungi, Streptococci
and it also promotes easier removal of the bacteria by inhibiting their ability
to adhere to tissue surfaces. Berberine is also anti-fungal and strongly
anti-diarrheal. It aids against the infection of mucous membranes such as the
lining of the oral cavity, throat, sinus, bronchi, genito-urinary tract and
gastrointestinal tract. Clinical studies have shown it is effective in the
treatment of diarrhea cause by E. coli (traveller's diarrhea), Shigella
dysenteriae (shigellosis), salmonella paratyphi (food poisoning), giardia
lamblia (giardiasis), and vibrio cholerae (cholera).
Goldenseal may also help with allergic rhinitis, hay fever, laryngitis,
hepatitis, cystitis, and alcoholic liver disease.
It has proven its value in cases of diarrhea and hemorrhoids. Its astringent
properties have also been employed in cases of excessive menstruation and
internal bleeding. Externally, a wash can be prepared to treat skin conditions
such as eczema and ringworm, as well as wounds and badly healing sores, or used
as drops in cases of earache and conjunctivitis. The decoction is also said to
be effective as a douche to treat trichomonas and thrush. As a gargle it can be
employed in cases of gum infections and sore throats. The application of a paste
or poultice containing goldenseal root is sometimes recommended for boils,
abscesses and carbuncles on the grounds that Goldenseal helps to kill bacteria
and reduce inflammation.
Supplement Factsr>
SeServing Size: 2 Capsules
Servings Per Container: 50
Golden Seal Root 1,070 mg
Recommended Use: As an occasional addition to the daily diet, take 1-2 capsules
3 times daily with a large glass of water.p>
