Echinacea and goldenseal are two very popular medicinal herbs that are often combined in herbal treatments. Their medicinal properties are thought to complement each other. Other names for goldenseal are eye balm, ground raspberry and Indian plant. Echinacea is also known as purple coneflower.
Although both herbs have been used medicinally, either in combination or separately for many centuries, there is still no definitive proof of their effectiveness. Before beginning to take echinacea or goldenseal medicinally, you should consult with your health care provider for instructions.
Echinacea and Goldenseal Uses
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center website, goldenseal is often used to treat upper respiratory problems, minor wounds, as well as several skin, eye, and mucous membrane inflammatory and infectious conditions. The UMMC website also notes that echinacea is useful in treating the common cold, as well as for the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections, and acts to boost the immune system, relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Because the two herbs are used for many of the same conditions, they are often combined to treat the symptoms and severity of colds and flu.
Portions of Echinacea and Goldenseal Used
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) reports that the roots and stems found underground are the portions of goldenseal that are used medicinally. But all of the echinacea plant is used medicinally, including the root, leaves and flowers. Liquid extracts or tinctures from these portions of the plants are often added to juice as a drink, or added to tea.
Side Effects
The UMMC website warns that goldenseal may cause irritation to the skin, throat and mouth. The herb may also cause an increased light sensitivity. Goldenseal is known to interfere with the action of some antibiotics and it may harmfully interact with medications such as blood thinners. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) website warns that goldenseal is dangerous if taken by people with stomach ulcerations, constipation, convulsions, hallucinations, nausea, vomiting, depression, nervousness, bradycardia, respiratory depression, and seizures.
According the UMMC, echinacea is reported to be dangerous if used by patients with leukemia, diabetes, tuberculosis, connective tissue disorders, multiple sclerosis, HIV or AIDS, liver disorders, or any autoimmune diseases. Echinacea may also interact with the functions of antifungal medications or immunosuppressants. Common side effects of echinacea are headache, dizziness, nausea, constipation, and rash.
Research
While goldenseal has been the subject of few clinical studies so far, echinacea has been studied much more. The UMMC website notes that some of the echinacea studies indicate the herb’s success in treating medical conditions. But other studies have shown a lack of positive information about the herb’s effectiveness. Some studies of echinacea show that the herb may decrease the odds of catching a cold and may reduce the severity of the symptoms, while other studies seem to show that the herb has no effect at all. More studies on each herb need to be done before they can be recommended.
Caution
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid the use of echinacea or goldenseal.
Any supplement can cause an allergic reaction. If you experience a rash, hives or shortness of breath while using medicinal herbs, discontinue its use and contact your health care provider.
Member Comments