Goldenseal was originally used by Native Americans, and it is now one of the most popular herbs in the United States, partly due to the false belief that it can mask illegal drugs in the urine. Goldenseal may have properties that would make it useful for managing yeast infections. However, there is insufficient scientific evidence to determine its effectiveness for this or any other use. Consult with your doctor before using goldenseal medicinally.
About Yeast Infection
Yeast infections usually occur from an overgrowth in the gastrointestinal tract of the yeast or fungus called Candida albicans. Persistent yeast infections are called chronic candidiasis. This condition causes a range of symptoms, including indigestion, abdominal pain, recurring vaginal yeast infections and diarrhea.Things that may help manage chronic candidiasis include avoiding white flour, refined sugars and fruit juices, which help yeast grow in the intestines, and taking anti-fungal supplements.
How It Works
Goldenseal contains an active substance called berberine that has been shown in test tube studies to kill many types of infecting organisms, such as those that cause candida yeast infections. Laboratory studies have also demonstrated that berberine can destroy bacteria, including those that cause diarrhea. Other beneficial actions of berberine include strengthening the immune system by activating white blood cells in the body and making them more effective at combating infections.
Dosing
Goldenseal can be taken in daily doses of 4 g to 6 g as powder in tablets or capsules, or 2 milliliters to 4 milliliters three times per day as liquid extract. Standardized extracts that supply 8 percent to 12 percent of active compounds may be taken in doses of 250 mg to 500 mg three times a day. You should not use goldenseal for more than three weeks continuously; allow a minimum of two weeks between each use. Consult your doctor before using alternative remedies, which can have side effects or interact with other medicines.
Effectiveness
No human research studies have tested goldenseal for its effectiveness in managing yeast infection. However, test tube and animal studies support its broad-spectrum antibiotic and anti-fungal actions. Because the berberine in goldenseal is not absorbed well when taken by mouth, its effects are thought to be localized to the gastrointestinal tract, so it may also provide some relief for the diarrhea that occurs in people with chronic candidiasis.
