Goldenseal
Natural Healing Herbs
Goldenseal is often combined with enchinacea for cold and flu remedies. The herb has a long history of use on the American continent.
Other Names
The Latin name for it is hydrastis canadensis. It's also called yellow root, orange root, ground raspberry, puccoon, and wild curcuma.
Appearance
This herb is characterized by its thick yellow root. It has a tall purplish stem and grows large dark green leaves. The plant has a small white flower and produces a single raspberry like berry.
Origins
The plant is native to North America and is used in Native American remedies. Prof. Benjamin Smith Barton wrote a book in 1798 in which he referred to the use of goldenseal by the Cherokees to cure cancer.
Parts Used
The root is dried and used to make teas, tinctures and capsules.
Medicinal Uses
This herb is very effective against fungi, bacteria and yeast. It is often used to fight infections. It's used to treat these conditions:
- cold and flu
- urinary tract and bladder infections
- congestion
- fungal infections
You can by this herb and many others at Mountain Rose Herbs.
Side Effects and Warnings
This herb is considered safe for short-term use. Occasionally, nausea and vomiting occur when taking it.
Don't take this herb with prescription medication. It can change the way your body processes the medication.
This herb shouldn't be taken women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant because it causes uterine contractions that could lead to miscarriage or preterm labor.
This herb shouldn't be taking by women who are nursing or given to infants or children.
If you found this information useful, check out my complete listing of herbs at my Herb Index. You can find a listing of ailments and their natural treatments on my Free Home Remedies page.
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