Goldenseal and echinacea are herbs most commonly used to help the body fight colds and respiratory infections. These herbs are also used for other types of infections, such as those that cause diarrhea and eye conditions. Consult with your doctor or other knowledgeable health care professional prior to taking echinacea and goldenseal, particularly if you have underlying health conditions or if you have any questions regarding usage or dosage.
Goldenseal Uses
Goldenseal is used as a treatment for a variety of conditions including respiratory tract, vaginal, eye and gastrointestinal infections. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, goldenseal began to be commercially grown after it became endangered. The use of goldenseal dates back to use by Native Americans to treat skin disorders and sexually transmitted diseases.
Echinacea Uses
Echinacea is a beautiful pink or purple flower with a characteristic cone in the center. Native Americans used the herb to treat nearly everything. Currently some people use echinacea to treat viral infections such as the common cold or the flu. It may also be used for ear infections, urinary tract infections and yeast infections. Echinacea and goldenseal are thought to boost the immune system to help the body fight infections.
Scientific Findings
Herbalists and naturopathic doctors recommend these herbs for different infections in the body due to the antibiotic and antiviral properties they are thought to contain. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that goldenseal has been shown to increase white blood cells that fight infection. Echinacea has also been found to decrease the severity and duration of respiratory infection and other infections.
Dosage
Goldenseal and echinacea are both available in capsules and liquid extract. Adults can take 500 to 1,000 mg of goldenseal three times a day. Echinacea can be taken three times daily as well, in a dose of 300 mg. Do not take these herbs for longer than 7 to 10 days at a time, and consult with your doctor if your symptoms are not better, or get worse, after this time.
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