Golden seal, or goldenseal, has historically been used by Native American Indians to treat a diversity of medical conditions ranging from arrow wounds to gonorrhea. It was used by early American settlers, and today it is available in the U.S. as an herbal supplement that is used for a wide range of ailments. However, there is a lack of human studies to support its efficacy for any health problem. Therefore, before taking goldenseal, first talk with your health care provider.
Identification and Dosing
Goldenseal is also known as yellowroot, yellow puccoon, Indian turmeric, orangeroot, jaundice root, eyebalm and ground raspberry, among other names. The dried goldenseal root is used to make teas as well as extracts that are available in pill form. Typical pill doses range from 250 mg to 1 g, taken three times a day. The liquid extract is used in doses of 10 to 30 drops, taken two to four times daily for treating the flu.
Uses
Goldenseal is used to treat various infectious conditions, including respiratory tract infections such as the common cold, diarrhea from bacterial or viral origin, eye infections, urinary tract infections, gonorrhea, and vaginal infections. It is also used as an adjunct to cancer treatment, liver problems and menstrual problems. Goldenseal is applied to the skin to treat skin lesions and cancer sores. Some people use goldenseal as a mouthwash to treat inflammation of the gums, mouth and throat.
Effectiveness
There is not enough information about goldenseal to rate its effectiveness for any health problem. Research has been conducted on a chemical found in goldenseal called berberine that has beneficial effects against some types of infections. The National Institutes of Health is funding research to further evaluate goldenseal for its effects against infections and for lowering cholesterol.
Considerations
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, goldenseal is generally safe when used for short periods of time and at recommended doses. Goldenseal can cause stomach problems such as nausea and vomiting, but these rarely occur. It may also cause increased sensitivity to light in areas where it is applied topically. Goldenseal should be avoided during pregnancy or lactation. Infants and children should also not take goldenseal.
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