Hydrastis canadensis, commonly known as goldenseal, is an herbal remedy that may offer some benefits for several health conditions. People use the roots and underground stems of goldenseal for teas, tinctures and liquid extracts, and goldenseal is also available commercially in tablets and capsules containing powdered root. Scientific evidence, however, is lacking for many of the claimed goldenseal health benefits, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM).
Respiratory Tract Infections
The most common use of goldenseal is for treating colds, flus and other upper respiratory tract infections, as well as seasonal allergies (hay fever). Goldenseal is considered a natural antibiotic, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Many commercial goldenseal preparations include echinacea, as both herbs are believed to boost the immune system.
Infectious Diarrhea
Chinese medicine traditionally uses berberine, a component of goldenseal, for treating dysentery and other types of infectious diarrhea. Clinical studies support this use, as noted by the NCCAM, but goldenseal contains only small amounts of berberine, so its benefit for this purpose may not be substantial.
Inflammatory and Infectious Conditions
Some individuals use goldenseal root for treating inflammation and infections involving the eyes and mucous membranes, explains the UMMC. Goldenseal root may have benefits for relieving symptoms of sinusitis and conjunctivitis, for example. Some people also take goldenseal root for vaginitis and urinary tract infections.
Skin and Oral Treatment
Goldenseal shows antiseptic properties in test tubes, according to the NCCAM. It may have benefits for disinfecting and healing cuts, scrapes and other wounds. Goldenseal may also help heal canker sores, and can be used as a mouthwash for sore throat and gums.
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