Benefits of echinacea and goldenseal. Goldenseal and Echinacea: Powerful Herbal Remedies for Natural Health Support

09.07.202307.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are the key benefits of goldenseal and echinacea. How do these herbs potentially boost immunity and fight infections. What dosages are recommended and what side effects should be considered. Discover the natural healing power of these popular herbal remedies

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The Origins and Traditional Uses of Goldenseal

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a perennial plant native to eastern North America with a rich history in traditional medicine. For centuries, indigenous peoples and early settlers have utilized the roots and leaves of this remarkable herb to address a wide array of health concerns, particularly those involving infections and inflammation.

In modern times, goldenseal has risen to prominence as one of the most sought-after herbal remedies worldwide. Its versatility is evident in the various forms it takes, including:

Teas
Herbal extracts
Capsules
Over-the-counter remedies (e.g., ear drops, feminine hygiene products, eyewash formulations)
Cold and flu remedies
Allergy relief products
Laxatives
Digestive aids

The widespread use of goldenseal in these diverse applications speaks to its perceived efficacy in addressing a range of health issues. But what makes this herb so potent?

The Active Compounds in Goldenseal

The power of goldenseal lies in its rich composition of alkaloid compounds. The three most prominent alkaloids found in high concentrations are:

Berberine
Hydrastine
Canadine

These alkaloids are believed to be the primary source of goldenseal’s reputed health benefits, particularly its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This unique chemical profile has made goldenseal a subject of interest for researchers and herbalists alike, who seek to uncover the full potential of this natural remedy.

Goldenseal’s Potential Health Benefits: Separating Fact from Fiction

While goldenseal has been praised for its numerous health benefits, it’s crucial to approach these claims with a critical eye. Many of the purported benefits lack robust scientific evidence, and more research is needed to fully understand the herb’s effects on human health. However, some potential benefits have gained more scientific backing than others.

Combating Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

Can goldenseal effectively fight the common cold? This is one of the most popular uses for the herb, often included in natural cold remedies. Cell and animal studies have shown promising results, suggesting that berberine, a key compound in goldenseal, may help combat infections caused by both bacteria and viruses, including the common cold virus.

However, it’s important to note that these studies often use higher concentrations of berberine than what’s typically found in goldenseal supplements. Additionally, the human body may not absorb berberine from goldenseal as effectively as from concentrated supplements. As a result, more research is needed to determine the actual effectiveness of goldenseal against upper respiratory tract infections in humans.

The Goldenseal-Echinacea Combination: A Powerful Duo?

Many over-the-counter herbal cold and flu remedies combine goldenseal with echinacea, another plant native to North America traditionally used to treat infections. While some studies suggest that echinacea may help reduce the risk of respiratory infections, the evidence is not conclusive.

Is there any added benefit to combining these two herbs? Currently, there’s no scientific evidence to suggest that the combination of goldenseal and echinacea offers any advantages beyond the potential benefits of taking each herb individually. This highlights the need for further research to explore possible synergistic effects between these popular herbal remedies.

Debunking Myths: Goldenseal and Detoxification

One common misconception about goldenseal is its alleged ability to help the body detoxify from harmful substances. This belief has led some people to use goldenseal in an attempt to pass drug tests. However, the scientific evidence supporting this claim is scarce and contradictory.

How does the body naturally detoxify? The human body is equipped with its own sophisticated detoxification system, primarily centered in the liver. This organ converts toxic compounds into harmless substances and ensures their elimination through urine and sweat. Contrary to popular belief, goldenseal may actually interfere with this natural process.

Research suggests that goldenseal might reduce the activity of certain liver enzymes responsible for breaking down drugs. This could potentially slow down the detoxification process rather than enhance it. On the other hand, some evidence indicates that goldenseal may help the body eliminate certain drugs more quickly through urine.

It’s worth noting that modern drug testing methods can now detect the presence of goldenseal in urine samples, making it an ineffective method for masking drug use. The bottom line is that goldenseal’s effects on detoxification may vary depending on the specific substance involved, and more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.

Goldenseal’s Potential Role in Fighting Infections

While scientific evidence is limited, goldenseal has gained popularity as a natural remedy for urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections. The potential benefits stem from the herb’s active compounds, particularly berberine.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

How might goldenseal help with UTIs? Cell studies suggest that berberine may prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder. This potential mechanism could help prevent or treat UTIs by inhibiting bacterial colonization. However, it’s important to note that more research, particularly human clinical trials, is needed to confirm these effects.

Yeast Infections

Goldenseal’s potential antifungal properties have also garnered attention, especially in relation to yeast infections. Berberine has been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, a fungus naturally present in the human body. When Candida overgrows, it can lead to vaginal yeast infections and other health issues.

While these initial findings are promising, it’s crucial to remember that most studies have been conducted in laboratory settings. More research is needed to determine the effectiveness of goldenseal in treating or preventing yeast infections in humans.

Dosage and Administration of Goldenseal

When considering the use of goldenseal, it’s important to understand proper dosage and administration. However, due to limited scientific research, there is no standardized dosage for goldenseal. The appropriate amount can vary depending on factors such as the form of the supplement, the specific health concern being addressed, and individual characteristics like age and overall health.

Common Forms and Typical Dosages

Goldenseal is available in various forms, each with its own general dosage recommendations:

Dried root: 0.5-1 gram, taken up to three times daily
Liquid extract: 2-4 mL, taken up to three times daily
Tincture: 0.3-1 mL, taken up to three times daily
Capsules or tablets: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 500-1000 mg per day

It’s crucial to note that these are general guidelines and not definitive recommendations. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Duration of Use

How long should you take goldenseal? Most herbal practitioners recommend using goldenseal for short periods, typically no longer than two to three weeks at a time. This is due to potential side effects and the risk of developing tolerance to the herb’s active compounds. After a course of goldenseal, it’s advisable to take a break before resuming use.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While goldenseal is generally considered safe when used appropriately, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Being aware of these potential risks is crucial for anyone considering the use of this herbal remedy.

Common Side Effects

Some people may experience the following side effects when taking goldenseal:

Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Skin irritation (when applied topically)
Mouth and throat irritation
Nervousness and restlessness
Changes in blood pressure

Precautions and Contraindications

Certain groups of people should exercise caution or avoid using goldenseal altogether:

Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Goldenseal may stimulate contractions and should be avoided during pregnancy. Its safety during breastfeeding is not well-established.
People with cardiovascular conditions: Goldenseal may affect heart rhythm and blood pressure.
Individuals with liver or kidney disease: The herb may interfere with the metabolism of certain medications and potentially exacerbate these conditions.
Those taking certain medications: Goldenseal can interact with various drugs, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, and certain antibiotics.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before using goldenseal, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Echinacea: A Complementary Herbal Remedy

Often paired with goldenseal in herbal formulations, echinacea is another popular natural remedy with a long history of traditional use. Native to North America, echinacea has been used for centuries to support immune function and combat various infections.

Potential Benefits of Echinacea

Research on echinacea has yielded mixed results, but some potential benefits include:

Boosting immune function
Reducing the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms
Alleviating upper respiratory tract infections
Providing anti-inflammatory effects

While some studies suggest that echinacea may help lower the risk of respiratory infections, the evidence is not conclusive. As with goldenseal, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of echinacea on human health.

Combining Echinacea and Goldenseal

Many herbal remedies combine echinacea and goldenseal, particularly in products aimed at boosting immune function and fighting colds and flu. However, it’s important to note that there is currently no scientific evidence to suggest that this combination offers any additional benefits beyond those associated with taking each herb individually.

When considering the use of echinacea, either alone or in combination with goldenseal, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on potential benefits, risks, and appropriate dosage based on your individual health needs and circumstances.

Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, and More

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. Teas, herbal extracts, or capsules sourced from this plant are used to treat colds, hay fever, digestive problems, sore gums, and skin problems (2, 3, 4).

Goldenseal is also added to various over-the-counter remedies, such as ear drops, feminine hygiene products, eyewash formulations, cold and flu remedies, allergy relief products, laxatives, and digestive aids (1, 4).

The herb is naturally rich in a class of alkaloid compounds, with berberine, hydrastine, and canadine being found in the highest concentrations.

These alkaloids are linked to antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and believed to be the main reason behind goldenseal’s purported health benefits (1).

Goldenseal is praised for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s often taken to prevent or treat upper respiratory tract infections and the common cold (3, 5).

It’s also used to treat skin disorders, lack of appetite, heavy or painful periods, sinus infections, indigestion, and other inflammatory or digestive disorders (1).

However, research supporting its benefits is limited and generally weak. The benefits with the most scientific backing are outlined below.

Colds and other upper respiratory tract infections

Goldenseal is a popular natural treatment for upper respiratory tract infections, including the common cold (6).

Cell and animal studies suggest that berberine, one of the main active compounds in goldenseal, may help fight infections caused by bacteria and viruses. This includes the virus responsible for the common cold (7, 8, 9, 10, 11).

However, despite goldenseal’s inclusion in many cold remedies, it’s unclear whether the effects observed in animals apply to humans.

The amount of berberine used in these animal studies is generally larger than the amount found in goldenseal supplements. In addition, the absorption of berberine from goldenseal may be lower than that of concentrated berberine supplements (4, 6).

Therefore, more research is needed to determine which effect, if any, goldenseal has against upper respiratory tract infections in humans.

Combined with echinacea

Goldenseal is often combined with echinacea in over-the-counter herbal cold and flu remedies (4, 12).

Echinacea is a plant that’s also native to North America and traditionally used to treat infections, including the common cold (12).

Although some studies suggest that echinacea may lower the risk of respiratory infections, not all agree (13, 14).

Currently, there’s no evidence to suggest that combining goldenseal with echinacea offers any benefits beyond those associated with taking each on their own.

Detoxing or passing a drug test

Some believe that goldenseal can help your body detox from toxins and harmful substances. Yet, very little evidence exists to support this claim.

Your body is naturally designed to detoxify itself. It does so by converting toxic compounds into harmless substances in your liver or making sure they’re eliminated from your body through urine and sweat (15, 16).

Research suggests that goldenseal may reduce the activity of certain liver enzymes responsible for breaking down drugs. As such, this herbal supplement may slow the detox process rather than promote it (1, 17).

However, there’s also evidence that goldenseal may help your body get rid of certain drugs more quickly through the urine. Because of this, some believe goldenseal may help hide the use of illegal drugs to pass a drug test (1).

Keep in mind that newer drug testing methods are now able to detect the use of goldenseal in urine samples, reducing the likelihood of a false negative result on a drug test (17).

While goldenseal’s detoxifying potential may depend on the type of toxin or harmful substance at hand, more studies are needed to confirm this.

Urinary tract and yeast infections

Goldenseal is a common herbal remedy for urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections.

Cell studies suggest that berberine, one of the main active compounds in goldenseal, may protect your body against various bacteria and fungi (18, 19, 20, 21).

For instance, berberine may stop bacteria from sticking to the walls of your bladder, potentially preventing or helping treat a UTI (22).

Berberine is also believed to keep Candida albicans, a fungus that’s naturally present in the human body, from multiplying in excess (23).

When present in normal numbers, Candida poses no health issues. However, when present in excessive amounts, this fungus can cause vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, skin rashes, and UTIs (24, 25).

In one study, people with recurrent UTIs given a mix of herbal extracts containing berberine were less likely to experience another UTI than those given no berberine (26).

Although the results from this study seem promising, no human studies have directly examined the effect of goldenseal on UTIs or yeast infections to date. Therefore, more studies are needed before strong conclusions can be made.

Chlamydia or herpes

Chlamydia and herpes are some of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the world (27, 28).

When left untreated, chlamydia can cause various complications, including infertility. Moreover, babies born vaginally to mothers with chlamydia have a higher risk of pneumonia and vision problems (28).

Herpes is a viral infection that causes watery blisters on the skin or mucous membranes of the lips, mouth, or genitalia. It can be transmitted through oral or sexual contact (28).

A handful of older studies suggest that berberine, one of the main active compounds in goldenseal, may help treat herpes and chlamydia infections.

For instance, some of these studies suggest that vaginal chlamydia infections may be treated with berberine-containing douches, vaginal suppositories, or various types of oral goldenseal supplements (29).

They also propose that berberine-containing plants may help prevent the herpes virus from replicating. One particular study observed that goldenseal mixed with myrrh and thyme helped treat oral herpes (30, 31).

That said, few of these studies looked at the direct effects of goldenseal in humans, and no recent research can be found to support these older findings. Therefore, more research is needed.

Acne and psoriasis

Berberine-containing plants like goldenseal may benefit your skin.

Older test-tube studies suggest that berberine, one of the main active compounds in goldenseal, may help fight P. acnes, the bacterium responsible for acne (32).

In addition, animal research suggests that berberine’s anti-inflammatory effects may help treat inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis (33).

However, research on this topic is limited and not specific to goldenseal. Therefore, more research is needed.

Oral health

Goldenseal may help protect against tooth infections.

One study suggests that an herbal mouth rinse containing various herbs and goldenseal reduced the growth of bacteria responsible for dental plaque and gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease (31).

Another study suggests that using goldenseal as a toothpaste or mouthwash may help soothe inflamed gums (34).

Still, research is limited, and more studies are needed to confirm these proposed oral health benefits of goldenseal.

Digestion

A few test-tube studies suggest that goldenseal extracts may fight H. pylori, a bacterium that can infect the lining of your stomach and has been linked to the appearance of stomach ulcers (35, 36).

Goldenseal extracts also appear effective against the C. jejuni bacterium, which is a main cause of gastroenteritis (37).

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines that causes diarrhea and vomiting. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), infections with C. jejuni are the most common cause of gastroenteritis (38).

Berberine, one of the main active compounds in goldenseal, is thought to be largely responsible for this plant’s potential ability to protect against H. pylori and C. jejuni (39, 40).

Yet, no studies have observed these effects directly in humans. Therefore, more research is needed before strong conclusions can be made.

Labor

Animal studies suggest that the berberine in goldenseal may induce labor by stimulating the uterus to contract (41).

However, goldenseal and other berberine-containing plants may not be safe to use during pregnancy for several reasons.

First, berberine administration in rats caused lower weight in both mothers and babies. In addition, berberine is believed to cause or worsen jaundice in newborns, which — in a low number of cases — may cause brain damage (4, 41, 42).

As such, women are advised to avoid goldenseal during pregnancy.

Cholesterol and triglyceride levels

Studies in mice and hamsters suggest that the berberine in goldenseal may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels (43, 44).

A recent review of 12 studies found similar results in humans. The authors concluded that berberine may help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels by 20–55 mg/dL (45).

Although these results seem promising, there’s currently no scientific proof that goldenseal produces the same effects.

Therefore, more research is needed to determine whether goldenseal has any cholesterol- and triglyceride-lowering effects in humans.

Diabetes

Goldenseal may be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.

Studies suggest that berberine, one of the main compounds in goldenseal, may reduce sugar absorption from the gut, lower insulin resistance, and promote insulin secretion — all of which are factors that may help lower blood sugar levels (46).

Research further suggests that the blood-sugar-lowering effects of berberine may be as effective as those of metformin, a common antidiabetic medication (46).

Moreover, the combination of berberine with blood-sugar-lowering medication appears to be more effective than taking blood-sugar-lowering medications on their own (47).

However, although the benefits of berberine appear promising, it’s unclear whether the amount of berberine in goldenseal is sufficient to produce the same effects. Therefore, more goldenseal-specific studies are needed.

Goldenseal is considered safe when consumed for short periods at the typically recommended dosages.

Side effects are rare but may include nausea, vomiting, and reduced liver function (42, 48, 49).

That said, research on this herbal supplement’s safety is very limited. In addition, short-term use is poorly defined, and little is known about the safety of long-term use or high dosages (1, 42).

Moreover, due to its high cost, some products claiming to contain goldenseal may not contain any amount of this plant or very little of it.

For instance, some products replace goldenseal with Chinese goldthread, Oregon grape root, barberry, yellow root, or Chinese goldenseal — all of which contain berberine but no hydrastine or canadine (50).

Therefore, these herbs may have different side effects and drug interactions than those associated with goldenseal (42).

People wishing to try goldenseal should carefully read a supplement’s ingredient label to ensure that it truly contains goldenseal before purchasing the product.

Goldenseal supplements are available in a wide range of forms, including capsules, lotions, drops, sprays, eyewashes, and feminine hygiene products. They’re currently consumed in various dosages, and little research exists on which dosage is best (1).

Dried root supplements tend to be taken in a dosage ranging from 0.5–10 grams three times a day, whereas alcoholic tinctures and liquid extracts are typically taken in dosages of 0.3–10-mL dosages three times a day (1).

Goldenseal can also be consumed as a tea by steeping 2 teaspoons of the dried herb in 1 cup (240 mL) of hot water for about 15 minutes.

That said, no studies can currently confirm whether these dosages are the most beneficial ones.

At this time, it’s unclear what dosage of goldenseal would cause an overdose — and what the effects of this overdose may be.

Over-the-counter goldenseal preparations tend to be available in doses ranging from 100–470 mg, and most people seem to take goldenseal in doses of 0.5–10 grams or 0.3–10 mL three times a day (1).

These dosages appear to be generally safe, but little is known about the potential effects of larger doses (1).

When in doubt, contact your healthcare provider or local poison control helpline.

Studies suggest that goldenseal may slow the activity of liver enzymes that are responsible for eliminating certain medications, including antidepressants.

This may cause these medications to remain in your body for longer than expected, possibly allowing them to reach toxic levels (41, 42, 49, 51).

People currently taking medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting to take goldenseal.

Little scientific guidance can be found regarding the optimal handling and storage of goldenseal supplements.

Goldenseal supplements are available in a wide range of forms, including dried herbs, lotions, and liquid extracts, among others.

As such, storage, handling, and expiration dates are likely to vary.

For best results, follow the storage and handling recommendations outlined on your product’s packaging and make sure to discard products that have passed their expiration date.

There’s currently little to no research regarding the safety of goldenseal use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Animal studies suggest that berberine, one of the main active compounds in goldenseal, is linked to lower weight in both mothers and babies. Berberine may also cause the uterus to contract, possibly increasing the risk of preterm birth (41).

According to animal research, berberine may also cause or worsen jaundice in newborns, possibly causing brain damage (4, 41, 42).

It’s currently unknown whether berberine can pass from mother to baby through breastmilk (52).

Based on this limited evidence, women are discouraged from consuming goldenseal while pregnant or breastfeeding.

At one point, goldenseal ranked amongst the top 20 most popular herbal remedies worldwide and the 6th most commonly used herbal preparation by children under 18 years of age (2).

However, little is known about its effects in children, other than that it may cause or worsen jaundice in newborns. Therefore, experts generally do not advise giving goldenseal to infants and young children (42).

Animal studies suggest that berberine-containing supplements like goldenseal may result in lower birth weight and cause the uterus to contract, potentially increasing the risk of preterm birth (41).

Moreover, little is known about the safety of goldenseal while breastfeeding. As such, it’s recommended that women avoid taking this herbal supplement during pregnancy or while nursing (52).

Finally, goldenseal may interact with certain medications, including antidepressants. Therefore, people currently taking any type of medication should consult their healthcare provider before taking goldenseal (42, 49, 51).

Most of goldenseal’s purported health effects are attributed to its active compounds berberine, hydrastine, and canadine.

Therefore, other berberine-, hydrastine-, or canadine-containing herbs or purified supplements may exert effects similar to those of goldenseal.

Research on the health benefits of purified berberine supplements is generally stronger than research regarding the benefits of goldenseal (53).

Berberine may be more easily absorbed into the body when taken alone compared with when ingested along with other compounds, as would be the case when taking goldenseal (4).

However, berberine supplements contain little to no hydrastine and canadine. Therefore, they may be expected to have effects and side effects that are different than those of goldenseal.

Berberine-containing herbs, such as Chinese goldthread, barberry, yellow root, and Oregon grape, are sometimes used as an alternative to goldenseal. However, these herbs typically contain little to no hydrastine or canadine (50).

Therefore, they may have different effects when compared with goldenseal, as well as side effects and herb-drug interactions of their own (42).