Goldenseal is an herb, the root of which is used medicinally. It has been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years by Native Americans, settlers and herbalists, and continues to be used to this day. It is readily available in packaged form in pharmacies and health food stores across the United States. The active ingredient in goldenseal is a chemical called berberine that demonstrates certain antibiotic properties.
Infections
Goldenseal has been used in the treatment of respiratory tract infections, colds and eye infections. Goldenseal is often found combined with another herb, echinacea, in natural cold remedies. The herb can also be used as an antiseptic to treat minor cuts and scrapes. Berberine may also boost the immune system to produce white blood cells used to fight infections.
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Goldenseal has antibiotic properties and has been used for the treatment of various infectious gastrointestinal disorders. These include infectious diarrhea, dysentery and even cholera, and a host of protazoal and helminthic infections such as giardiasis and tapeworms. Goldenseal can also be used as a digestive aid, promoting the production of bile secretions which help to break down fats within the digest tract.
Oral Hygiene
Goldenseal teas or extracts can be prepared as a mouthwash. For oral health care, these can be used to treat mouth wounds, canker sores, and gum and throat irritations.
Other Uses
Goldenseal has also been used to treat muscle spasms, heart conditions, constipation and even certain cancers. The herb has also been used in the past to stop excessive menstrual flow and postpartum hemorrhage, and as a treatment for vaginitis.
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