Goldenseal Yi Wen Ni Student pharmacist Spring 2022 Scientific name: Hydrastis canadensis Common names: goldenseal, yellow root, orange root, yellow puccoon, ground raspberry, eye balm, eye root, jaundice root, and Indian turmeric Medical Uses for Goldenseal Today Today goldenseal is normally found as “goldenseal” in the supplement sections of different drug and/or grocery stores. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, including indigestion, symptoms of flu/cold, mild eye irritation, ulcers, and eye and/or ear infections.
Background/History Originally goldenseal was not only for medical use. The Native Indians also used this plant as a dye. By using the root, yellow dye can be made. The root itself is typically one to three inches long and has many bright yellow filaments. Sometimes a red berry (looks like a raspberry) will also sprout in July, hence the name “ground raspberry”. Some medical conditions the Native used Goldenseal to treat were inflammation and eye infections. Lastly, it is also used as an insect repellent. Mechanism of Action There is no information on exactly how it affects the body to treat the different conditions. However, it is just known that goldenseal is made of alkaloids, but isn’t very effectively absorbed when taken orally.
Suggested Dosing Lexicomp recommends 250mg to 1gram, three times daily. But some labels may even suggest higher dosing. Women who are pregnant or lactating should not take this supplement.
Effectiveness Based on clinical trials, there is no solid evidence that goldenseal may be effective in any treatments. For example, it is said that the Berberine in goldenseal plants supposedly helps treat Type 2 diabetes, but there is not enough information on how it works, either via CYP450 or other mechanisms.
THE PICTURE ON THE LEFT SHOWS THE PLANT “GOLDENSEAL”. IT DISPLAYS THE YELLOW ROOTS COMMONLY USED.
Available Dosing Forms ⚘ Capsules ⚘ Teabags ⚘ Lotions ⚘ Eyewashes ⚘ Sprays
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