Goldenseal is a plant whose medicinal use dates back centuries, when native Americans used it to treat a variety of conditions. Today, goldenseal is one of the most commonly used herbal supplements in the United States. However, although it can prohibit the growth of microorganisms, it is often not used in this manner, according to Langone Medical Center at New York University. If you want to take goldenseal root supplements to improve your health, first consult with a trusted health practitioner who can advise you of its benefits and how to use it safely.
Historical Uses
Native Americans were the first to use goldenseal for its potential medicinal benefits such as treating digestive problems and skin conditions as well as sore eyes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. As Europeans settled in North America, they, too, began using goldenseal for its health benefits. Then, in the 1800s, the herbalist Samuel Thompson introduced a new form of medicine that relied heavily on the use of goldenseal. Thompson spoke about the purported wonders of goldenseal across the United States, leading to a drastic increase in its use, according to Langone Medical Center. Eventually, though, his brand of medicine faded in popularity.
Current Uses
Some of the early uses of goldenseal continue today, with it still being touted as a treatment for treating skin wounds and aiding in digestion. It is also now sometimes promoted to help clear up common infections such as colds and the flu and also as an immune system boost, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. One reason it remains popular is because it is rumored to be effective in hiding the presence of drugs in routine drug screenings. Despite this belief, no scientific data supports this. In fact, some studies have shown it does not appear to affect the results of a drug test, according to a study published in the October 1998 issue of the "Journal of Analytical Toxicology."
Chemical Constituents
The potential health benefits in goldenseal relate to its astringent, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The active ingredients in goldenseal include two alkaloids: berberine and hydrastine. In fact, many studies indicate health benefits derived from goldenseal root have actually been conducted on these two chemicals and not the plant itself. For example, the berberine in goldenseal affects the heart in a manner that may make it useful in treating cardiac conditions such as heart failure and arrhthymias, according to a study published in the fall 2001 edition of "Cardiovascular Drug Reviews."
Dosage
Goldenseal root can be used to make several types of supplements, including capsules, tablets, tinctures and extracts. The recommended dose depends on what type of supplement you are using. If you are taking capsules or tablets containing dried goldenseal root, the recommended dose is 4 to 6g a day, according to the University of Michigan Health System. If you are using an tinctures, take 2 to 3 mL three times a day. For standardized extracts, take 30 to 120 mg as many as three times a day.
Side Effects and Warnings
When taken as directed, goldsenseal is generally regarded as safe. In rare cases, people may experience nausea and vomiting as side effects of the herb, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Also, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use goldenseal supplements because the berberine in the plant can stimulate uterine contractions. The berberine can also be transferred to an infant via breastmilk, resulting in liver damage. No known drug interactions exist with goldenseal, but the supplement could affect how drugs are metabolized or act in the body.
Member Comments