Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis) aka - Seal-all, Golden Thread, Yellow Root, Indian Dye

The Native Americans used Goldenseal as a tonic for sore throats, eye infections, ulcers, and even arrow wounds. It was used as an insect repellent and as a pesticide for crops. It was also boiled in water and used externally for skin conditions. The dried root was official in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia from 1831 to 1842 and was re-admitted in 1863 to 1936. Goldenseal has been used traditionally for many different conditions, such as boosting the glandular system, hormone imbalance, congestion, inflammation, female problems, infection, bronchitis, catarrh of the bladder, gastritis, ulcers, bowel stimulation, anti-septic, and as an immune system builder. Goldenseal is used as an herb specifically for the mucous membranes. It has also been applied in conditions effecting eye inflammation (it is very gritty so always strain it through cheese cloth before using it in the eye). Goldenseal is useful in the treatment of female problems relating to inflammation of the vagina, uterus and urethra. A constituent of Goldenseal is ‘berberine’ which has been shown useful against a variety of microbes. It is an immune-stimulator, as a result of increasing blood supply to the spleen. Goldenseal as an anti-septic can be used to cleanse boils, wounds and ulcers. Goldenseal helps reduce sugar in the blood when used in combination with Licorice. Myrrh may be used as an alternate, if low blood sugar is a problem. It also helps promote good heart and respiratory function.

Primary uses: Here are just a few of the maladies Goldenseal may provide relief from:

• Bladder Problems
• Bronchitis
• Eye Irritation
• Female Issues
• Gum Diseases
• Colitis
• Kidney Problems
• Liver Diseases
• Pancreas Imbalances
• Prostate Glands
• Skin Disorders