Goldenseal?

[isles]

Can anyone attest to using golden seal supplements? A co worker said it was good for building resistance and preventing infections as a herbal antibiotic. I'm afraid to try it should it aggravate my bladder. Any comments? Suggestions? Thanks!

[humpieumpumkin]

All I know is that it is a powerful detoxifier and can be used to cleanse the liver like when you quit smoking. It is strong, I would use it with caution. Ask your doctor or a nurse. I bet Sandy RN or Babs RN would know.

Erika

[loro]

i have used goldenseal and still use it to this day. It is not meant for long term use tho.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.trengthens 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.

[GinaGV]

Question:

Are you using the Goldenseal root or Goldenseal herb?

[purpleviolet]

further goldenseal info

My herbal teacher claimed he healed someone's IC with goldenseal (large amounts over several weeks), but frankly I don't believe it - Perhaps they really had an infection that the goldenseal got to. I would not take large amounts unless under the care of a very experienced herbalist. There seems to be some debate at how toxic too much berberine is. Goldenseal that doesn't come from the root is usually low in the active alkaloid ingredients. The highest quality is very expensive and usually professional herbalists have access to it. Oregon grape also contains berberine and several other herbs do also. PV