Goldenseal ~ Hydrastis canadensis

Goldenseal

Latin name: Hydrastis canadensis

Family: Ranunculaceae

Part used: root

Habitat: native to N. America

Main constituents: isoquinoline alkaloids (hydrastine, berberine, canadine)

Energetics: cooling, drying

Main herbal actions: bitter, alterative, hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, choleretic

Minor herbal actions: mild laxative (possible, depending on astringency)

Main medicinal uses: bacterial infection, dyspepsia, gastritis, peptic ulceration, colitis, colds, flu, sore throats

Minor medicinal uses: menorrhagia, vaginitis, constipation; topical: conjunctivitis, eczema, aural inflammation

Preparations: decoction: 1 tsp/cup water; 1:4 dry or 1:1 tincture: 10-60 gtt qd-qid; powder in capsules: 2-20 grams (Khalsa)

Contraindications: pregnancy (oxytocin action); may exacerabate hypoglycemia, hypotension, fresh plant may cause mucosal irritation

Toxicity: unknown

Sources: Sharol Tilgner, N.D.: Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth; Wren, R.C. Potter’s New Cyclopaedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations