Goldenseal Leaf/Hydrastis Canadensis
Goldenseal leaf has a long history of use among many Native American tribes as a dye and medicinal herb. The Native Americans have used Goldenseal for its anti-fungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The roots were used as a wash for local inflammations, and a decoction for general debility, dyspepsia, and to improve appetite. The Iroquois used a decoction for whooping cough in infants, diarrhea, liver disease, fever, sour stomach, flatulence, and pneumonia! They’ve also used Goldenseal root with other roots to create an infusion used for ear aches, and eye wash! Goldenseal has even proven useful in combination with garlic as a strong anti-parasitic!
Interestingly, both its use as a dye and medicinal can be attributed to the its main active constituents, Berberine, and Hydrastine! When the leaf is soaked in water the berberine and hydrastine are released creating a yellow hue that can be used to dye cloth. Berberine and hydrastine, are alkaloids that can be found in some medicinal plants, and have been extracted by many pharmaceutical companies for their powerful medicinal uses. Interestingly enough, Goldenseals medicinal constituents, berberine, hydrastine, and canadine, in their extracted pure form are considered poisonous, so their use in pharmaceutical medicine must be carefully formulated to be considered safe to use! While the production of modern medicines containing these alkaloids is considered safe on a prescription basis, because the scientific studies have found them to be harmful their use in over the counter medicines are prohibited by the FDA. The use of Goldenseal as a blood purifier, anti-fungal, antibacterial, and decongestant is not considered safe or effective by the FDA ;although, there is no doubt that the attention it has gained for its medicinal properties is backed by its long history of successful use. Indeed, Goldenseal is still a popular herb that is sold all over the world and in most cases it is classified as a dietary supplement!
Traditionally Goldenseal has been found effective in the treatment of internal inflammatory conditions such as respiratory infections, digestive and urinary tract inflammation induced by allergies or infections, as well as externally in the treatment of bacterial skin infections, skin inflammations, and fungal infections. Goldenseal has proven itself useful in the treatment of many internal bacterial infections by aiding and protecting the mucous membranes, and preventing bacteria from attaching to the insides of the body. Goldenseal has even been traditionally used to treat very serious infections such as E. Coli, Shigellosis, Salmonella, Paratyphi(food poisoning), Giardiasis, Cholera, and Conjunctivitis(pink eye)! With such a long history as a powerful medicine it is no wonder that pharmaceutical companies have used Goldenseal to make their medicines; however, we think that the plant in its raw and natural form caries the spirit of healing that can not be found in modern medicines that have been far removed from natures love. We hope you find our Powdered Goldenseal Leaf useful and helpful in providing you with the spirit of healing however you may need it!
Health Benefits and Possible uses:
Dye: Goldenseal can be effectively used as a natural dye!
Anti-Inflammatory: Goldenseal has been used as a wash to treat irritated inflamed skin conditions, as well as in the treatment of internal inflammations such as painful inflamed urinary tract caused by infection, and digestive inflammations caused by bacterial infections or allergies.
Anti-Fungal: As an anti- fungal, Goldenseal has been used to treat topical fungal infections and irritations.
Anti-Bacterial: Goldenseal’s has been used for its anti-bacterial qualities to treat many different types of bacterial infections topically as well as internally. These same qualities make Goldenseal useful as an anti-bacterial wash to cleanse the skin.
Anti-Parasitic: Goldenseal has also traditionally been used in conjunction with other plants for the removal of parasites.
Traditional Preparations and Dosage:
Tea: Traditionally about 3 to 5 grams of Goldenseal powder would be added and mixed into an 8oz cup of hot water to make a tea for internal use.
Decoction: Traditionally a decoction would be made by boiling Goldenseal in water for 10 to 20 minutes, for external use and internal use.
Wash: A wash can be prepared by soaking Goldenseal in hot or cold water and applied to the effected area.
Side Effects and Cautions:
Do not use Goldenseal if breastfeeding or pregnant , as it may have an effect on the muscles of the uterus and cause contractions.
Goldenseal may raise blood pressure and should not be used by people with hypertension, or people taking blood pressure medications.
Goldenseal is a powerful medicinal and should not be over used! Like all medicines, when over used Goldenseal could possibly cause serious harm to ones body.
***These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. ***
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