Goldenseal: Uses in Traditional Medicine

Goldenseal is a perennial herb native to North America. It is used in traditional medicine for its potential antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties.
Category
Herb
Where to get
Available in health food stores as a dried herb or in liquid extracts.
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Goldenseal FAQ


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What is goldenseal used for?

Goldenseal ( Hydrastis canadensis) is a perennial plant native to eastern North America ( 1 ). Its roots and leaves have been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, especially those involving infections or inflammation ( 1 ). Today goldenseal ranks amongst the most popular herbal remedies worldwide.

What is the scientific name for goldenseal?

The scientific name for goldenseal is Hydrastis Canadensis L. Another name for goldenseal is yellow root. Goldenseal gets its name from its yellow and brown roots. The rest of the plant consists of small flowers, jagged 5-lobed leaves, and a small berry. The plant grows in the northern areas of North America and is at risk of over-picking.

Is goldenseal a perennial?

Goldenseal ( Hydrastis canadensis ), also called orangeroot or yellow puccoon, is a perennial herb in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae, native to North America. It may be distinguished by its thick, yellow knotted rootstock. The stem is purplish and hairy above ground and yellow below ground where it connects to the yellow rhizome.

What is goldenseal?

This perennial herb may commonly be called orangeroot or yellow puccoon in certain areas, but it is scientifically known as Hydrastis canadensis and belongs to the buttercup family. It is found in Canada and parts of the eastern United States but has also spread to some parts of Europe.

Is goldenseal a good supplement?

Goldenseal ( Hydrastis canadensis) is a perennial herb native to eastern North America. As a supplement, it's commonly used to treat conditions such as the common cold, seasonal allergies, canker sores, and even diabetes. There is little scientific evidence that it helps these conditions, however.

Where does goldenseal grow?

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), also known as orange root, yellow root or yellow puccoon, is a perennial herb belonging to the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. It is a low, sprawling plant native to the rich, shady soil of the deciduous forests of North America growing from southern Quebec to northern Georgia and west to Missouri.

Goldenseal References

If you want to know more about Goldenseal, consider exploring links below:

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