|
Goldenseal was used
by the Native Americans as a treatment for irritations and
inflammation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory,
digestive, and urinary tracts. It was commonly used
topically for skin and eye infections. Because of its
antimicrobial activity, goldenseal has a long history of use
for infectious diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infections,
and vaginal infections. Goldenseal is often recommended in
combination with echinacea for the treatment of colds and
flu. Goldenseal was considered a critical remedy for stomach
and intestinal problems of all kinds by turn-of-the-century
physicians called the Eclectics.
Source:
www.kcweb.com
Goldenseal
is a native American medicinal plant introduced to early settlers by
Cherokee Indians who used it as a wash for skin diseases, wounds,
and for sore, inflamed eyes. Its roots are bright yellow, thus the
name. Goldenseal root has acquired a considerable reputation as a
natural antibiotic and as a remedy for various gastric and
genitourinary disorders.
Numerous
references to Goldenseal began to appear in medical writings as far
back as 1820 as a strong tea for indigestion. Today it is used to
treat symptoms of the cold and flu and as an astringent,
antibacterial remedy for the mucous membranes of the body.
This
popular North American herb grows wild in moist mountainous woodland
areas. Goldenseal's long history of use among North Americans
flourished after the Civil War as it was an ingredient in many
patent medicines. It has been collected to the point of near
extinction. Goldenseal supplies are diminishing and most is now
wildcrafted, making herbal supplements costly.
Goldenseal
is used in many combination formulas and is reported to enhance the
potency of other herbs. Preparations have been marketed for the
treatment of menstrual disorders, urinary infections, rheumatic and
muscular pain and as an antispasmodic.
The
active ingredients in Goldenseal are the alkaloids hydrastine and
berberine. Similar in action, they destroy many types of bacterial
and viral infections. These alkaloids can also reduce gastric
inflammation and relieve congestion. Berberine is a bitter that aids
digestion and that has a sedative action on the central nervous
system.
Goldenseal
works wonders in combination with Echinacea particularly at the
onset of cold and flu symptoms, especially coughs and sore throats.
Goldenseal, Echinacea and Zinc lozenges should be in every medicine
cabinet.
Goldenseal
is a cure-all type of herb that strengthens the immune system, acts
as an antibiotic, has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial
properties, potentiates insulin, and cleanses vital organs. It
promotes the functioning capacity of the heart, the lymphatic and
respiratory system, the liver, the spleen, the pancreas, and the
colon.
Taken
internally, Goldenseal increases digestive secretions, astringes the
mucous membranes that line the gut, and checks inflammation. It also
aids digestion by promoting the production of saliva, bile, and
other digestive enzymes. In addition it may control heavy menstrual
and postpartum bleeding by means of its astringent action.
As
a dilute infusion, Goldenseal can be used as an eyewash and as a
mouthwash for gum disease, and canker sores. It is also an effective
wash or douche for yeast infections. External applications have been
used in the treatment of skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema,
athlete's foot, herpes, and ringworm.
|
