Belonging to the same family as the buttercup, goldenesal Hydrasis canadensis is a perennial herb native to north America. It gets its name from the rich yellow colour of its root and the small cup like scars found there, which resemble the wax seals used in the 19th century to close envelopes. It is a difficult plant to grow in cultivation, especially in the UK - most of the goldeneseal sold in Europe is imported dried or powderded from the US.

Ancient Origins

The dried root of Goldenseal has long been used to sooth inflamed or infected mucus membranes. The Cherokee, Iroquis and other native American tribes valued it as a remedy for anything from insect bites to bloating to eye infections and stomach aches. Numerous references to goldenseal as a strong tea for indigestion began to appear in medical writings as far back as the 1800's. These days it is considered by medical herbalists in Europe to be an inportant herb in the fight against infection, as it has immune boosting, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflamatory properties. It is good for colds, flus, dijestive disorders, urinary tract infections, eye infections, cold sores and gum disease.

Oganico stocks a powdered goldenseal from Munster Wholefoods, a tincture of goldenseal from Naturalife, and capsules by Lifeplan.

Medicinal Benefits

The active ingredients in goldenseal are the alkaloids berberine and hydrastine. These can be used to build up the immune system and to destroy many types of bacterial and viral infections. A daily dose of goldenseal at the first sign of cold symptoms can help it turning into a full blown cold by enhancing the activity of virus fighting white blood cells. Goldenseal is often used in conjunction with echinacea, as one seems to enhance the potenct of the other. It is often used in cases of mild urinary tract infections, and other mild bacterial infections such as cold sores.

Goldenseal is also used to sooth the dijestive tract in cases of vomiting and nausea, as it is thought to stimulate the dijestive sectretions and help to destroy bacteria that are causing the symptoms. Used as an eyewash, it can sooth conjunctivitis, and as a mouthwash it helps to sooth gum disease. In addition, goldenseal can be used to help a range of menopausal and menstrual problems. it combines well with chaste tree and is especially good for cooling hot flushes and night sweats.

Methods

To infuse goldenseal, use one teaspoon of the dried herd to 600 mls of water. Steep, then strain through muslin and leave to cool. The infusion can be used as an eye of mouth wash three times a day. Alternatively, use 2-3 mls of goldenseal tincture in a tumbler of warm water for mouth ulsers and gum disease.

Watch Point

Goldenseal should be taken only for the duration of an illness or complaint, and is best taken with meals. It is a uterine stimulant and should not be used during pregnancy, or by people with high blood pressure or glaucoma. It should not be given to children under the age of two.

Naturally you should always consult a qualified medical practitioner for any chronic health conditions.

Organico Shop, Glengarriff Rd., Bantry, Co. Cork, Ireland. Phone +353 (0)27 51391