Goldenseal or Hydrastis Canadensis |
Goldenseal is also commonly known as the root of wild turmeric orange or scientific Hydrastis Canadensis by its name. This herb is found in many parts of the U.S. and Canada. The herb has its own medicinal benefits to offer and is also used in conjunction with others to improve their effectiveness. Native American tribes of North America have traditionally used goldenseal of medication, as well as a coloring agent. The Cherokees are believed to have used this herb as an effective cure for cancer.Goldenseal is a most effective drug to treat a variety of skin problems. A skin ointment or lotion made from this herb is commonly used for this purpose. Even skin rashes and eruptions caused by poor digestion effectively cured by taking this herb.Effective treatment for infectionsInfection of the mucous membranes of upper respiratory tract, such as those surrounding the mouth, throat and sinuses, can be cured by goldenseal tinctures. This herb is also very effective against many disease-causing organisms such as different types of yeast, bacteria and fungi.Urinary tract infections, intestinal and vaginal infections and diseases of the stomach are also cured by the use of goldenseal. For older people, goldenseal is an effective remedy for bladder infections. Older people recommend goldenseal tablets to cope with the ailments of the stomach and liver, including functional stomach disorders, cirrhosis, ulcers, gastritis, dyspepsia and constipation atonic catarrhal.This herb is also very effective against breast and lung disease. As the herb is a bitter taste that stimulates the secretion of bile in the human body. This, in turn, improves digestion while also helps to dislodge phlegm collected in the lungs, working as an expectorant. That's why older people tend to start taking goldenseal when they detect the onset of colds or flu.Older people also often use goldenseal as a mouthwash to treat sore gums and throat. When applied to cold sores or wounds, goldenseal hastens healing and prevents infections.Historical use of goldensealGoldenseal has been used as natural medicine by Native Americans from the earliest times. These people use this herb to treat digestive disorders, skin problems and eye irritations. The first European settlers saw the benefits that this herb was to the Native American tribes and started using themselves during the colonial era.Herbalist Samuel Thompson became the world's attention to this herbal medicine in the 1800s as an effective cure for various ailments. Today, goldenseal is in high demand worldwide for its many benefits.Different forms of goldensealGoldenseal can be used in different ways. For the treatment of wounds and ulcers, is often applied as an ointment or lotion. A mouthwash or goldenseal tincture can be used as a gargle to treat sore throat or mouth ulcers. The stem and roots of the plant are boiled to make tea, once dried. Apart from this, goldenseal is also available as tablets and capsules.Care for the ElderlyBerberine is a major component of goldenseal and increases levels of bilirubin.Older people with a history of heart disease or high blood pressure should not use this herb without the prior approval of your doctor first. For these people, external use, such as through the rinses and gargles may be approved by the physician.