How to Take Goldenseal for Health

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a member of the buttercup family and is also known as eye balm, ground raspberry, Indian paint and Indian turmeric. It grows in shady areas with rich soil and is native to the northern United States. The following steps will help you decide whether or not to take this herbal supplement.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Read about the historical uses of goldenseal. It was used by Native Americans before the arrival of Europeans primarily for skin problems and as an eye wash. It also became popular for treating menstrual cramps and upset stomachs in the 1900s.
2. Take goldenseal for an upset stomach and as a natural antibiotic. It is also applied externally as an astringent and to disinfect minor cuts and scrapes. Some mouthwashes contain goldenseal to be used for sore throats and canker sores.
3. Look at the results from modern scientific testing of goldenseal. It contains berberine, which is a known antibiotic and disinfectant. It is also used to kill various parasites. However, goldenseal does not contain enough berberine by itself to be effective. Extracts made from goldenseal may prove effective but further studies will have to be made. Goldenseal has not been proven effective in hiding marijuana in the urine as was thought in the 1990s.
4. Study the side effects of goldenseal. It can irritate the mouth, skin, throat, mouth and vagina. It may also cause nausea and diarrhea.
5. Ingest no more than the recommended dosage. The usual dosage is a capsule or tablet of 500 to 2,000 mg three times per day.