Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis) a member of the buttercup family is a commonly used herbal tea. It is widely used as an antiseptic to stop bleeding, as an anti-inflammatory for the mucous membranes, for nasal congestions and as a general tonic.
Goldenseal has a long history of use by Native Americans, especially by the Cherokee for the treatment of gastrointestinal and skin disorders.
It use was popular among European settlers during the mid-19th century and this herb was listed in the United States Pharmacopeia.
Goldenseal can also stimulate IgM antibody production. The dried rhizomes and roots of goldenseal contain the alkaloids berberine and hydrastine, which have antibacterial properties.
Berberine provides both the yellow color and bitter taste to goldenseal roots and is reported to be effective against influenza viruses.
Because the alkaloids are poorly absorbed in humans, goldenseal tears are not expected to achieve berberine and hydrastine blood concentration high enough to be effective.
Goldenseal is a small plant with a single hairy stem. It has two five-lobed, jagged leaves, small flowers and raspberry-like fruit. The bitter tasting rhizome or root, is a bright yellow growing wild in rich, shady soil in the northern US, but is now grown mostly on farms.
Only the hardiest taste buds can tolerate the bitter taste of this tea. Adding sweetener will made it less effective.
Goldenseal
