The Enigma of Goldenseal Root Herb

Goldenseal root is the yellowish orange root of a plant known as Hydrastis canadensis, and has been used for many centuries by the Iroquois of North East America and then the early settlers of the eastern seaboard for the treatment of a variety of conditions now known to be largely bacterial in nature. Its use for the treatment of colds and flu is less easy to understand, and the way that this ‘cure-all’ works in general is not yet fully understood by modern medicine.

Some believe it to stimulate the production of mucus that itself possesses antibacterial properties, while others claim it to be an astringent for the mucal membranes. The function of the isoquinoline alkaloid berberine is a subject of debate: can it explain the antibacterial properties or is it too mild. Can it be used to treat cancer or not: science is divided. Can it be used by athletes to mask drug taking?  On that question, at least, there is unanimity that it cannot.

Another theory that appears to have a high degree of possibility is that goldenseal reduces the resistance of bacteria to antibiotics, synthetic or natural, and so enables them to be more easily destroyed either by antibiotics in the blood or natural bug killers in the diet and the environment.

The problem that scientists have with goldenseal is that it is a traditional remedy, and like many it appears to work with those that use it.  However, there are many reasons why it may not, but few explanations as to possible mechanisms for its highly antibacterial properties.  And what about its anticancer properties, and its use to treat viral infections?  Those that use it for such swear to its efficacy, but what is the explanation?

Don’t worry about the explanation.  Just use it where it works for you and leave the theories to the scientists.

Look for Solaray name brand goldenseal root herb at your local or internet health food store in capsule, tablet, and powder forms.  Always buy the root herb for other forms are available which may not work as described above.