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GOLDENSEAL
Articles by a Naturopathic
Doctor ( N.D.)
Goldenseal works both inside and outside of the body to prevent and treat infection ... |
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GOLDENSEAL |
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Goldenseal is a
potent, natural
antibiotic |
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Goldenseal is most commonly used in combination with Echinacea for the treatment of common cold and respiratory infections. This herb was originally used by native North Americans for a variety of infectious complaints including those of the respiratory, urinary, and gastrointestinal tracts. In the herbal medicine community Goldenseal is known as the "king of the mucous membranes". |
Berberine
The major constituent of Goldenseal is berberine, and it is the source of Goldenseal's infection-fighting ability. Berberine has anti-microbial activity against viruses, fungi, parasites and bacteria. For more information on berberines, please click here.
Hydrastine
Another constituent of Goldenseal is called hydrastine and is the component that relaxes smooth muscles. This is helpful to relieve coughs, intestinal and stomach spasms and decrease blood pressure. This makes Goldenseal useful in the treatment of the common cold, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), irritable bowel disease (IBD), and hypertension.
Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Mucous
Additionally, goldenseal has been found to decrease secretions and inflammation in mucous membranes. Thus it can be used for the treatment of: gastritis, inflammatory bowel problems, cystitis (bladder inflammation), sinusitis, bronchitis and rhinitis (nasal inflammation).
Common Cold
Because it reduces secretions from mucous membranes, and relaxes the muscles of the airway, Goldenseal can help to reduce the symptoms of the common cold. It is also rich in antimicrobial berberines, thus it can help to treat the cause of the cold at the same time.
Bitter
Because of its strong taste and effects on mucous membranes, Goldenseal can also be used as a digestive bitter. Digestive bitters are herbal preparations that help to stimulate the digestive system and promote increase secretion of saliva, stomach acid, bile, and digestive enzymes. For more information on bitters, please click here.
How can I take Goldenseal?
Goldenseal can be purchased as a loose herb, encapsulated herb, tablets, extract or tincture. In general liquid preparations of goldenseal are stronger than dried preparations. Formulas often contain the whole plant but the root is where the most beneficial medicinal properties are found. Goldenseal is found in formulas for colds and flus, gastrointestinal infections, urinary tract infections and healing mucus membranes. It can be taken orally or applied topically for skin infections.
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Goldenseal –
QUICK FACTS
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PARTS USED
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Roots. |
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APPLICATIONS |
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Colds,
respiratory
infections,
stomach
ulcers, skin
ulcers,
boils,
abscesses,
bladder
infections,
gastritis.
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OPTIMUM
DOSAGE
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Topically
apply tea or
diluted
tincture to
area as
needed.
Oral 500-1000mg daily (standardized to 2.5% berberine and 1.5-5%
hydrastine).
(Clinical
doses may be
higher as
recommended
by your
practitioner). |
WORKS WELL
WITH
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Echinacea,
colloidal
silver,
vitamin C,
bioflavinoids,
probiotics. |
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IMPORTANT
INFORMATION
click for products |
· Because of its strong antimicrobial effects, Goldenseal use should always be followed by a probiotic.
· Do not use goldenseal if you are pregnant or nursing.
· Do not use for long periods of time.
· Extremely high doses can cause toxicity.
Overdose of Goldenseal can cause low blood pressure, slowed heart rate, hallucinations and delirium. Do not exceed recommended dosage. |
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For
informational
purposes only.
Please consult your
health care
practitioner before
taking natural
health care
products. Click here
for full disclaimer. |
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All articles
copyright National Nutrition
2001 - 2012. For educational
purposes only. Please note
that while National Nutrition
supports your right to use
natural health care products for
any therapeutic purpose that you
see fit, that the information on
this website should not be
considered as a claim or as a
substitute for medical advice. |
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