Hydrastis Canadensis L, an herb better known as goldenseal, has been used for centuries to treat infections, inflammation and even the common cold. This plant has been used primarily to treat maladies of the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, the respiratory system and the genitourinary tract. However, goldenseal, even in therapeutic doses, has been known to cause adverse effects. Always consult your health care provider before taking this or any other herbal remedy.
Medicinal Forms
The yellow rhizome and root are the parts of the goldenseal plant that are used most often for medicinal purposes. Goldenseal, a perennial herb, may grow a single red berry, which is not used medicinally. This herb is also used in conjunction with other herbs to boost their medicinal value. You will find a dried and powdered form of the rhizome and root in tablet and capsule form, as well as in salve, tincture and loose powder at your local health food store. You may also see goldenseal available as an herbal tea alone, or in combination with other herbs.
Traditional and Current Uses
Traditionally used throughout North America, goldenseal has several medicinal properties and has been touted as a topical antimicrobial, as a laxative and digestive supplement, as a mucosal anti-inflammatory and even as a cure for cancer. Today, goldenseal is used by herbalists primarily as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and astringent, as a laxative and in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. This herb seems to have a strong astringent effect on the upper airway, lessening the inflammatory response to allergens.
Asthma
Asthma has been described as a condition of the lungs from as far back as 2,000 years ago, and still commonly affects people of all ages. Predominant symptoms include breathlessness and wheezing due to a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways. There is no known cure, and patients are encouraged to closely manage the inflammatory process to avoid flare-ups that can be fatal if not treated in a timely manner.
Active Constituents
Hydrastine and berberine are the active constituents in goldenseal. These compounds cause your body to increase the production of "healthy" secretions, both in your airway, and your GI tract. Bacterial and viral infections can also cause an increase in mucous production; however, your body fights this by also increasing the production of mucous. These secretions contain astringent properties which provide natural antibiotic activity, without the side effects that pharmaceutical antibiotics, such as penicillin, can cause. However, there is insufficient clinical evidence to prove that goldenseal is effective in the treatment and management of asthma symptoms.
