All about Goldenseal Root
Native to North America, where it thrives in deciduous woods and meadows, and once prized by the Indians as an all purpose herbal remedy, goldenseal, is closely related to the buttercup. Goldenseal root, however, is the part of the plant that is used for therapeutic purposes. Effects of GoldensealGoldenseal herbal safetyThere are many uses and effects of goldenseal. Traditionally, it was used to treat painful, inflamed, or infected mucuous membranes; stomach aches; for better digestion; and as a laxative, just to name a few. Nowadays, however, among all the beneficial effects of goldenseal, it is used most prominently to boost the body's ability to fight off infection. In this regard, goldenseal is argued to increase the body's capacity to fight off germs, bacteria and viruses. How does it work? This part still remains unclear, but some experts believe the active components of goldenseal root...alkaloids known as berberine and hydrastine (and possibly some others) can give a boost to white blood cells that fight viruses and such in the body. Goldenseal herbal safety: Effects of GoldensealGoldenseal herbal safety...some possible adverse effects of goldenseal include but are not limited to: nausea and diarrhea. Consuming the plant fresh (as opposed to an herbal supplement form) can irritate mucous tissues and possibly cause respiratory problems.Goldenseal should not be taken continuously. Some herbalists believe you should only take it when you're coming down with a cold, flu, or illness; while others suggest that it be cycled by taking it for three weeks and then discontinued for the same length of time, etc.
In addition, if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, or glaucoma, make sure you avoid this herb...the effects of goldenseal are such that it may increase blood pressure. It is possible there are other issues with goldenseal herbal safety, so make sure you always speak with your physician before taking supplements or herbal remedies of any kind, especially if you have an existing medical condition.
Choose a goldenseal root supplement made from standardized extracts that contain 8% to 10% alkaloids, or 5% hydrastine, the active components.
Herbs with similar function to goldenseal root, include: 1) Echinacea -- immune system booster taken to ward off colds, flus and the like.
Increased feeling of well-being, mental acuity, energy are just a few of the benefits we've experienced with a product called Total Balance manufactured by Xtend-Life Natural Products from New Zealand. |