Goldenseal has a long history of medicinal use, dating to the Native American Indians who used it as a treatment for a variety of ailments, including skin problems and digestive disorders. Goldenseal has possible antimicrobial activity and is being studied for possible benefits in the treatment of urinary tract infections, or UTIs. So far, there is insufficient scientific information to recommend goldenseal for UTI. Consult with your doctor before using goldenseal medicinally.
About UTI
UTIs are infections of the kidney, bladder and urethra, which is the tube through which urine exits. UTIs are usually caused by bacteria and tend to keep recurring in some people. Symptoms tend to appear suddenly and may include frequent urination, a burning sensation when you are urinating, an ongoing need to urinate even after your bladder has been emptied, and a foul smelling or cloudy urine. Supplements, such as goldenseal, may help in the management of UTIs.
Effects
Goldenseal contains a substance called berberine, which may work against bacteria and fungi. Berberine has been shown to prevent bacteria called Escherichia coli, or E. coli, from attaching to the walls of the urinary tract. However, many substances in goldenseal are not absorbed well when taken orally, so it is uncertain if enough berberine is absorbed to be effective. Goldenseal has not been studied for UTIs in humans and should not be a substitute for antibiotics.
Sources and Dosing
You can buy goldenseal supplements as liquid extracts, glycerites or low-alcohol extracts, tablets and capsules that contain the powdered root. The usual dose of goldenseal is 500 to 1,000 mg as capsules or tablets taken up to three times daily; 30 to 120 mg of standardized extract, taken up to three times daily; and two to three ml of tincture taken three times daily.
Considerations
Goldenseal is considered to be generally safe when taken for a short time. You should not take goldenseal more than three weeks continuously without at least two weeks between each use. High amounts of goldenseal may cause gastrointestinal upset and possible effects on your nervous system. Avoid goldenseal if you are or pregnant or breastfeeding.
