Goldenseal is a small plant with a hairy stem. It has small flowers and raspberry-like fruit. The medicinal part of the plants is the dried rhizome and root fibers. The herb has a bitter taste and smell, but it can help kill many types of bacteria. It can also aid digestion and treat minor wounds. However, there are even more benefits to this herbal remedy.
Digestion
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, goldenseal is marketed as a tonic to aid digestion and soothe upset stomachs. The University of Colorado reports that it helps to promote digestion by increasing the production of saliva, bile and other digestive enzymes. Goldenseal is carried by health food stores and is safe to be taken internally. However, the taste of this herb can be unpalatable because of the bitterness.
Upper Respiratory and Allergies
Goldenseal contains a compound called berberine that can be helpful in killing different types of bacteria. As a result, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports that goldenseal can be useful in treating colds, flu and other upper respiratory infections. In addition, goldenseal also has anti-inflammatory properties that can also make it beneficial in treating allergic rhinitis or hay fever and other allergic reactions.
Anti-Microbial
Goldenseal is a natural antiseptic and has anti-microbial benefits, making it useful in treating minor cuts and wounds and helping to reduce infection. According to the University of Colorado, the herb contains an alkaloid called berberine, which helps to reduce the effectiveness of microbes by inhibiting their adherence to the host cells. It can be used either externally or internally without danger. In addition, the antiseptic properties that goldenseal contains also helps to treat minor sore throats, canker sores and can be used to help control bacteria in the mouth when it is used as a mouthwash. It can also help to treat conjunctivitis and even urinary tract infections.
Immune System
Goldenseal might be beneficial in boosting the immune system, but according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, only one study has shown this benefit and it was not well designed. However, the University of Colorado reports that the berberine that is found in goldenseal can help to increase the blood supply to the spleen, which can also help release compounds that boost the immune system. This could potentially make it an effective treatment for people who have a compromised immune system or who are suffering from diseases such as cancer or HIV.
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