Goldenseal, an herb used for centuries, is believed to promote healthy skin, boost the immune system, stimulate digestion, and act as a natural diuretic. It should not be taken by pregnant women or those with high blood pressure. Side effects are rare but can include nausea and mouth/throat irritation.
Hydrastis canadensis, or goldenseal, is an herb that has been used for various medical ailments for hundreds of years. It has been known over the years by various names, including yellow root, orange root, and ground raspberry. Goldenseal extract is made from the root of the goldenseal plant. Goldenseal capsules, tablets, tinctures, and teas are among the most popular herbal remedies.
Probably the first people to realize the benefits of goldenseal root were the Native Americans, more specifically the Iroquois and Cherokee tribes. They used this herb for various skin diseases and other diseases. Native Americans probably introduced this herb to the first European settlers in North America.
Today, goldenseal extract is believed to promote healthy skin, and is still used to treat some skin disorders, including thrush and warts. Applying a tincture of goldenseal to the affected area is said to combat the papillomavirus that causes these types of infections. Goldenseal extract is also used as an acne cure, and is also said to relieve itching caused by some skin disorders, such as eczema.
Goldenseal extract can also be taken internally in the form of capsules, tablets, or teas. When taken orally, it can help boost an individual’s immune system by stimulating white blood cells and increasing the production of germ-fighting compounds. Many people will take goldenseal along with echinacea, which can also boost the immune system. This herbal combination can shorten the duration of a cold, flu, or other infection.
Goldenseal extract can help stimulate the digestive system. Because of this, it is often used as a cure for many stomach-related ailments, such as diarrhea and constipation. Herbalists often recommend combining goldenseal extract with cayenne pepper in a one-to-one ratio to combat indigestion and chronic gas.
People with excess water weight may also benefit from taking goldenseal. This herb is a natural diuretic and can help promote urination and sweating. Although there are some who believe that goldenseal extract can help a person pass a drug test, this is probably not true. This myth is probably based on a fictional book, Stringtown on the Pike, written by a popular herbalist in the early 20th century.
Although goldenseal extract side effects are rare, some mild ones can occur. These can include nausea and irritation of the mouth and throat. Goldenseal, in any form, should not be taken by a pregnant woman. Berberine, a component of this herb, may increase the risk of uterine contractions. People with high blood pressure should also refrain from taking goldenseal extract.
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