What are the key benefits of echinacea and goldenseal. How do these herbs work synergistically. What potential side effects should users be aware of. What is the recommended dosage for optimal results. How effective are these herbs in boosting immunity and fighting infections.

The Potent Duo: Understanding Echinacea and Goldenseal

Echinacea and goldenseal are two popular herbal remedies that have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Both native to North America, these plants have garnered attention for their potential health benefits, particularly in supporting the immune system and combating various infections. But what exactly do echinacea and goldenseal do, and how effective are they when used together?

Echinacea: The Immune Booster

Echinacea, derived from the coneflower plant, has long been revered for its immune-enhancing properties. This herb is believed to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which play a crucial role in fighting off pathogens and infections. Echinacea is commonly used to:

• Reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms
• Alleviate upper respiratory tract infections
• Support overall immune function
• Potentially decrease inflammation

Goldenseal: Nature’s Antibiotic

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a perennial herb known for its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The root of this plant contains several alkaloids, with berberine being the most well-known and studied. Goldenseal is often used to address:

• Digestive issues and infections
• Skin conditions and wounds
• Urinary tract infections
• Respiratory infections
• Eye and ear infections

The Synergistic Effects of Echinacea and Goldenseal

When combined, echinacea and goldenseal are believed to create a powerful synergy that enhances their individual benefits. This combination is often found in over-the-counter herbal remedies designed to combat colds, flu, and other infections. But how do these herbs work together?

Echinacea primarily focuses on boosting the immune system, while goldenseal acts as a natural antibiotic and anti-inflammatory agent. This dual-action approach may provide a more comprehensive defense against pathogens and infections. The combination is thought to:

1. Enhance overall immune function
2. Provide stronger antimicrobial effects
3. Offer more potent anti-inflammatory benefits
4. Potentially reduce the duration and severity of infections

However, it’s important to note that while many people swear by this herbal duo, scientific evidence supporting their combined use is limited. More research is needed to fully understand the extent of their synergistic effects.

Unveiling the Potential Benefits of Echinacea and Goldenseal

While individual results may vary, the combination of echinacea and goldenseal has been associated with several potential health benefits. These include:

1. Enhanced Immune Function

Can echinacea and goldenseal really boost your immune system? Both herbs are believed to stimulate various components of the immune system, potentially increasing the body’s ability to fight off infections. Echinacea may increase the production and activity of white blood cells, while goldenseal’s berberine content has shown antimicrobial properties in laboratory studies.

2. Respiratory Health Support

How effective are these herbs in treating respiratory infections? Many people turn to echinacea and goldenseal for relief from colds, flu, and other upper respiratory tract infections. While research results are mixed, some studies suggest that echinacea may reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms. Goldenseal’s antimicrobial properties may help combat the pathogens responsible for these infections.

3. Digestive Health Improvement

Goldenseal, in particular, has been traditionally used to address various digestive issues. Its berberine content may help combat harmful bacteria in the gut, potentially alleviating symptoms of digestive disorders. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.

4. Skin Health Support

Both echinacea and goldenseal have been used topically to promote skin health and wound healing. Their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties may help in treating minor skin infections, cuts, and bruises. However, it’s crucial to use proper formulations designed for topical use and consult a healthcare professional before applying these herbs to open wounds.

Dosage and Administration: Finding the Right Balance

Determining the correct dosage of echinacea and goldenseal can be challenging, as there’s no standardized recommendation. The appropriate amount can vary based on factors such as age, health status, and the specific condition being treated. Here are some general guidelines:

Echinacea Dosage

• Dried root or herb: 0.5 to 1 gram, three times daily
• Liquid extract: 2 to 3 mL, three times daily
• Tincture: 0.75 to 1.5 mL, three times daily

Goldenseal Dosage

• Dried root: 0.5 to 1 gram, three times daily
• Liquid extract: 2 to 3 mL, three times daily
• Tincture: 0.3 to 1 mL, three times daily

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and individual needs may vary. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While echinacea and goldenseal are generally considered safe for most people when used as directed, they can cause side effects in some individuals. It’s crucial to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions.

Echinacea Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Allergic reactions (especially in people allergic to plants in the daisy family)

Goldenseal Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Increased blood pressure
• Nervousness and anxiety
• Mouth and throat irritation

Who should avoid using echinacea and goldenseal? These herbs may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals who should exercise caution or avoid these herbs include:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• People with autoimmune disorders
• Individuals taking certain medications (e.g., immunosuppressants, blood thinners)
• Those with liver or kidney disease
• People allergic to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family

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

The Science Behind Echinacea and Goldenseal

While echinacea and goldenseal have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, modern scientific research is still catching up to fully understand their mechanisms of action and efficacy. Let’s delve into what current research says about these herbs:

Echinacea Research

Studies on echinacea have yielded mixed results. Some research suggests that it may:

• Reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms
• Stimulate the immune system by increasing white blood cell production
• Possess anti-inflammatory properties

However, other studies have found no significant benefits. The inconsistency in results may be due to variations in echinacea species used, preparation methods, and study designs.

Goldenseal Research

Most of the research on goldenseal has focused on its active compound, berberine. Studies have shown that berberine may:

• Have antimicrobial properties against various bacteria, fungi, and parasites
• Possess anti-inflammatory effects
• Potentially help regulate blood sugar levels

However, it’s important to note that many of these studies were conducted in laboratory settings or on animals. More human studies are needed to confirm these effects and determine the optimal dosage and safety profile.

Integrating Echinacea and Goldenseal into Your Wellness Routine

If you’re considering adding echinacea and goldenseal to your health regimen, it’s essential to approach their use thoughtfully and responsibly. Here are some tips for integrating these herbs into your wellness routine:

1. Choose Quality Products

Look for reputable brands that use standardized extracts and provide third-party testing results. This ensures you’re getting a consistent and pure product.

2. Start with Low Doses

Begin with the lowest recommended dose and gradually increase if needed. This allows you to gauge your body’s response and minimize the risk of side effects.

3. Use Cyclically

Many herbalists recommend using echinacea and goldenseal in cycles rather than continuously. For example, you might take them for 2-3 weeks, followed by a 1-2 week break.

4. Combine with Healthy Lifestyle Practices

Remember that herbs are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Combine their use with proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management for optimal results.

5. Keep a Health Journal

Track your symptoms, dosage, and any changes you notice while using echinacea and goldenseal. This can help you and your healthcare provider determine their effectiveness for your individual needs.

By following these guidelines and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can safely explore the potential benefits of echinacea and goldenseal as part of your holistic health approach.

Exploring Alternative and Complementary Herbs

While echinacea and goldenseal are popular choices for immune support and fighting infections, they’re not the only herbs with potential health benefits. Consider exploring these alternative or complementary herbs:

1. Astragalus

Known for its immune-boosting properties, astragalus is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to enhance overall health and vitality.

2. Elderberry

Rich in antioxidants, elderberry is believed to have antiviral properties and may help reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms.

3. Andrographis

This herb has shown promise in reducing the severity and duration of upper respiratory tract infections.

4. Garlic

Known for its antimicrobial properties, garlic may help boost immune function and fight off various pathogens.

5. Oregano Oil

With potent antimicrobial properties, oregano oil is often used to combat bacterial and fungal infections.

Remember, while these herbs may offer potential benefits, it’s crucial to approach their use with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Each herb may interact differently with your body and any medications you’re taking.

The Future of Herbal Medicine: Echinacea and Goldenseal in Modern Healthcare

As interest in natural and holistic approaches to health continues to grow, herbs like echinacea and goldenseal are gaining more attention from the scientific community. What does the future hold for these traditional remedies in modern healthcare?

Ongoing Research

Researchers are continually studying echinacea, goldenseal, and their active compounds to better understand their mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety profiles. Future studies may:

• Explore optimal dosages and formulations
• Investigate potential new applications
• Examine long-term effects and safety
• Study interactions with conventional medications

Integration with Conventional Medicine

There’s a growing trend towards integrative medicine, which combines conventional medical treatments with evidence-based complementary therapies. Echinacea and goldenseal may play a role in this approach, potentially being used alongside conventional treatments to enhance overall health outcomes.

Standardization and Quality Control

As the popularity of herbal remedies grows, there’s an increasing focus on standardization and quality control. This may lead to more consistent and reliable herbal products, making it easier for healthcare providers to recommend and monitor their use.

Personalized Herbal Medicine

Advancements in genetic testing and personalized medicine may help determine which individuals are most likely to benefit from echinacea, goldenseal, or other herbal remedies. This could lead to more targeted and effective use of these herbs in healthcare.

While the future of echinacea and goldenseal in modern healthcare looks promising, it’s important to remember that herbal remedies should be used thoughtfully and under professional guidance. As research progresses, we may gain a deeper understanding of how to harness the full potential of these powerful plants for optimal health and wellbeing.

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).

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).

Best Echinacea & Goldenseal Reviews iHerb

Best Echinacea & Goldenseal Reviews

Nature’s Way, Echinacea Goldenseal, 450 mg, 100 Vegetarian Capsules customer reviews

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Rating: ★★★★★ Valid This combination works great! I ordered it after I got tired of being sick all the time. A small draft-snot, a little cold-throat, and so on. At the same time, pp and a healthy lifestyle, fitness .. I drank 2 pieces in the morning with meals. As a result, the whole family was sick with the flu, I escaped with a slight fright! And it’s me, who is the first to get sick! I drank for two weeks, took a break, now I drink again. I’ll finish packing and take a break for the summer. I will order again in the fall.

Rating: ★★★★★ Strengthen immunity The child stopped getting sick. Immunity is strengthened. I believe in these pills. Only positive effect.

Rating: ★★★★★ Echinacea for immunity First aid for colds. good composition

Rating: ★★★★★ Works! Initially ordered an adult dosage instead of a child dosage by accident, as I wanted to strengthen the immunity of a child who goes to the garden. Yes, and I ordered 180 capsules! What to do, began to drink with her husband themselves. In recent years, my husband has been constantly carrying viruses and colds home, he has a cyst in his nose, and he could not do without vasoconstrictor drops. I started taking 2 capsules in the morning, we drink for a month. During this time, I did not hear a sniff, there were no new sores. I can say for myself – there was a clear onset of the disease, the body broke, the throat hurt, the nose was blocked. And ahead of the New Year! Before that, I drank 1 capsule, and then I became 2 in the morning, and 1 in the evening. Surprisingly, it helped! She didn’t believe it herself. I ordered it in liquid form and my daughter, they started giving, we’ll see)

Rating: ★ Doubtful effect I did not notice the effect, I started taking it at the initial stage of the disease, before the manifestation of pronounced symptoms of SARS. As a result, everything resulted in Tracheitis, I switched to conventional medicines. In my opinion, a useless tool.

Rating: ★★★★★ great combination Drinking student sister. Given the regular trips in public transport, as well as the change in climate and lifestyle, the result is simply superb. I myself drink 2 tablets as soon as it seems that I start to get sick. In the morning the symptoms disappear immediately.

Rating: ★★★★★ Lisnovsky family I already ordered 4 jars and this is the best alternative to our pharmacy antivirals (Ukraine). It doesn’t matter what kind of illness we immediately accept everything and the child is a schoolboy. I noticed from my daughter that with any virus with or without a high temperature, everything proceeds without complications. I don’t believe that I drank the capsules and never got sick, at least that’s how it is with us. She also gave ester together with echinacea – it works super with bioflavonoids.

Rating: ★★★★ Help with colds Not a bad alternative to any anti-cold medicines. The main thing is purely vegetable.More reviews,

Nature’s Way, Echinacea & Goldenseal, 450 mg, 180 Capsules She said after she got tired of being sick all the time. A small draft-snot, a little cold-throat, and so on.

At the same time, pp and a healthy lifestyle, fitness .. I drank 2 pieces in the morning with meals. As a result, the whole family was sick with the flu, I escaped with a slight fright! And it’s me, who is the first to get sick! I drank for two weeks, took a break, now I drink again. I’ll finish packing and take a break for the summer. I will order again in the fall.

Rating: ★★★★★ Strengthen immunity The child stopped getting sick. Immunity is strengthened. I believe in these pills. Only positive effect.

Rating: ★★★★★ Echinacea for immunity First aid for colds. good composition

Rating: ★★★★★ Works! Initially ordered an adult dosage instead of a child dosage by accident, as I wanted to strengthen the immunity of a child who goes to the garden. Yes, and I ordered 180 capsules! What to do, began to drink with her husband themselves. In recent years, my husband has been constantly carrying viruses and colds home, he has a cyst in his nose, and he could not do without vasoconstrictor drops. I started taking 2 capsules in the morning, we drink for a month. During this time, I did not hear a sniff, there were no new sores. I can say for myself – there was a clear onset of the disease, the body broke, the throat hurt, the nose was blocked. And ahead of the New Year! Before that, I drank 1 capsule, and then I became 2 in the morning, and 1 in the evening. Surprisingly, it helped! She didn’t believe it herself. I ordered it in liquid form and my daughter, they started giving, we’ll see)

Rating: ★ Doubtful effect I did not notice the effect, I started taking it at the initial stage of the disease, before the manifestation of pronounced symptoms of SARS. As a result, everything resulted in Tracheitis, I switched to conventional medicines. In my opinion, a useless tool.

Rating: ★★★★★ great combination Drinking student sister. Given the regular trips in public transport, as well as the change in climate and lifestyle, the result is simply superb. I myself drink 2 tablets as soon as it seems that I start to get sick. In the morning the symptoms disappear immediately.

Rating: ★★★★★ Lisnovsky family I already ordered 4 jars and this is the best alternative to our pharmacy antivirals (Ukraine). It doesn’t matter what kind of illness we immediately accept everything and the child is a schoolboy. I noticed from my daughter that with any virus with or without a high temperature, everything proceeds without complications. I don’t believe that I drank the capsules and never got sick, at least that’s how it is with us. She also gave ester together with echinacea – it works super with bioflavonoids.

Rating: ★★★★ Help with colds Not a bad alternative to any anti-cold medicines. The main thing is purely vegetable.More reviews,

Nature’s Answer, Echinacea & Goldenseal, Alcohol Free, 1000 mg, 2 fl oz (60 ml) cold remedy

Excellent remedy for the first symptoms and even with an ongoing cold! At first I experienced it myself, with a tingling sensation in my throat and a starting runny nose, I immediately began to take it, a day later there was nothing, no manifestations of the disease. Recently, the child had a high temperature and turned out to have a tonsil with purulent plugs, read sore throat, after two days of use there is no temperature and the throat is almost normal (well, of course there were gargles with soda and salt). I ordered a second time for the coming autumn-winter. Yes, an unpleasant bitter taste, but for an adult this is not a problem, the child will not really like it, but nevertheless it turned out to be watered, the result is worth it, I have not regretted it at all and recommend it to everyone!

Rating: ★★★★★ Echinacea Literally after two days of regular use of echinacea, the condition improved significantly. Initially I took it for a child 2.5 years old, but the taste turned out to be too bitter for him, I still recommend children’s echinacea (before that I tried from Gaia). I recommend it works!

Rating: ★★★★★ helped me! Tried only once. In the evening I felt that a cold was starting. I took 28 drops. I woke up healthy in the morning.

Rating: ★★★ Stopped taking the drug

Rating: ★★★★★ Works I take a child for the autumn-winter period. It helps to cope with a mild cold very well, and for a more serious cold I give it in combination. We recover faster with this little thing.More reviews,

Nature’s Way, Echinacea & Goldenseal, 99.9% Alcohol Free, 30 ml customer reviews

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Rating: ★★★★★ Hood I’m glad) I dilute it a bit with water and then drink it with plain water.

Rating: ★★★★★ An indispensable companion in autumn and winter I have been buying for two seasons for a child of kindergarten age, I convince myself that it works) We buy ourselves the same in capsules, and several times did not let me get sick, checked. I hope the child will benefit as well.

Rating: ★★★★★ Haven’t tried it yet I bought it based on reviews and a discount. Haven’t tried yet.

Rating: ★★★★★ Excellent Echinacea Excellent “working” echinacea. As soon as I feel that I have a cold, I use this remedy. Usually, 3 days is enough to not get sick. I have bought it 4 times already. I like her very much. I give it to children according to the instructions.

Rating: ★★★★★ Super Good echinacea, taken at the first sign of illness does not let you get sick.

Rating: ★★★★★ Worker Worker echinacea unlike Childlife

Rating: ★ Took according to the Promotion From this I am doubly happy))) my promo aoz forty nine zero one! Before that, I took the usual echinacea, it seems to me that it helps, I use only natural remedies in the treatment, all in a complex! Goldenseal should be even better than usual!

Rating: ★★★★★ I advise kids who have just started kindergarten I’m delighted. Echinacea was recommended by friends. The son went to the nursery at 1.6 and began to get sick all the time: two weeks at home, two in the garden (bronchitis, laryngitis, etc.). Prior to this, he had not been sick at all. They waited until the son recovered from the last illness and drank the course for 10 days. Already 1.5 months no illness! Hooray! Despite the fact that in the garden the children are already sick for the 3rd circle. In the summer we plan to take another course for prevention. Store echinacea in the refrigerator. They gave 0.5 ml 2 times a day after meals (the child at that time was 1.11). They added it to 50 ml of water and let it drink, drank calmly, there were no sharp smells or taste. Just sweet water. There were no allergies and no side effects either. I advise all parents who are going to take their children to the kindergarten!!!More reviews

Rating Echinacea and goldenseal

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Why is Echinacea and Goldenseal extract blend good?

Are you looking for a natural way to strengthen your immune system? Echinacea and goldenseal extract may be exactly what you are looking for. They are both effective herbal remedies for colds, flu, and other respiratory ailments. This powerful combination contains a potent blend of antioxidants, alkaloids, and other plant extracts that, when used together, can help support healthy immune function. In this post, we will discuss the potential benefits of using echinacea and goldenseal extract as well as their side effects. We will also look at how to properly use these herbal extracts to maximize their effectiveness.

What are mixtures of echinacea and goldenseal extracts?

A blend of Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia/purpurea) and Goldenseal (Sambucus nigra) extracts is a popular herbal supplement known for its immune-boosting properties. It is made from two types of plants that have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Echinacea is believed to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, while goldenseal has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Together, they make a powerful combination for maintaining overall health and well-being. If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your immune system and fight off colds and flu, a mixture of echinacea and goldenseal extracts might be just what you need.

Benefits of Echinacea Extract

Echinacea, commonly known as Echinacea purpurea, has been used in folk medicine for centuries as a remedy for various ailments. Scientific studies have shed light on the modern benefits of this plant. Several studies show that echinacea helps prevent or treat upper respiratory tract infections (URIs). They reduce the symptoms and duration of the disease. Echinacea has been found to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and even reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. This is due to its active compounds, which have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Echinacea is used to fight infections and help wounds heal. It can also be taken to help with urinary tract infections, ear infections, and more. Echinacea tincture has also been shown to lower blood sugar levels in people with high blood glucose levels, a condition that can increase the risk of diabetes and other health problems. The herb is safe for most people and rarely causes side effects. You can take it internally or apply it to your skin. Some herbalists say that you should not use echinacea for more than 8 weeks because it can damage your liver or suppress your immune system.

The best way to use echinacea extract is as a supplement. It can also be taken as a tea, tablet, or tincture. As more research is done, it is becoming increasingly clear that echinacea could be a valuable addition to our modern health system.

Benefits Goldenseal extract 90 011

Native to North America, Goldenseal has been used for centuries for its natural healing properties. This herb is known for its powerful antimicrobial properties, making it especially beneficial for treating infections and inflammation in the body. It has also been shown to have a positive effect on digestive disorders such as constipation and diarrhea. The active ingredient in goldenseal, berberine, has been the subject of much research for its ability to fight infections such as gastrointestinal disease, lower blood sugar, and improve insulin sensitivity. With so many potential health benefits, it’s no wonder goldenseal has become a popular natural remedy for those seeking to improve their overall well-being.

Goldenseal – Natural Cold Remedy

Goldenseal is a safe, natural herb, sometimes combined with echinacea, which is a popular choice for immune support, cold and flu relief, and upper respiratory infections. Goldenseal is also a natural expectorant and can help you breathe better and sleep more when you are sick.

Goldenseal is a natural pain reliever

Berberine, an alkaloid found in goldenseal, can relieve pain. It also supports the immune system by activating macrophages, which eat away bacteria and other foreign substances in the body. Studies have shown that it may be useful in the treatment of inflammatory diseases and digestive disorders such as indigestion, diarrhea and gastritis. It can also inhibit the growth of bacteria called H. pylori, which can infect the lining of the stomach and lead to ulcers. The bitter substances in goldenseal also stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and stomach acid, preparing the stomach for optimal absorption of food. It also helps balance the microbiome, which is the bacterial community in the digestive tract.

Goldenseal is a natural antibiotic

Goldenseal is also known to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by bacteria and yeasts. It has been shown to prevent bacteria from sticking to the lining of the urethra and bladder. It also helps restore the balance of bacteria in the small intestine, preventing overgrowth of E. coli and Proteus species that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Echinacea and Goldenseal Combination Benefits

Echinacea and Goldenseal are two natural remedies that have been used for centuries. Their combination can provide various benefits for overall health and wellness. Echinacea is known for its immune system boosting properties, while goldenseal is a powerful anti-inflammatory. Together, they can help fight infections, reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and even improve cognitive function. Whether you’re taking it as a supplement or making a tea, the combination of echinacea and goldenseal can be a great addition to any health regimen. It’s important to check with your doctor before adding any new supplements to your daily routine, but this powerful duo can bring a lot of benefits to your life.

Echinacea and Goldenseal Extract Blend Side Effect

Echinacea and Goldenseal Extract Blend is a popular herbal supplement with people looking for natural remedies for various ailments. However, it is important to note that, like any other supplement, it can have side effects that users should be aware of. Some of the possible side effects include upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a physician before taking this supplement, especially if the person has underlying medical conditions or is taking medication. It is also important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed it, as this may increase the risk of side effects. However, they can cause side effects if taken in high doses over time. In addition, they may interact with certain medications. For example, berberine can interact with medications such as benzodiazepines. Talk to your doctor if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications and be sure to follow the dosage recommendations on the label of your Goldenseal product.

In conclusion, both echinacea and goldenseal offer numerous health benefits when taken alone or in combination with extracts. While the natural benefits are significant, it is also important to note that there may be side effects if too much of this extract blend is taken. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before use to ensure that the correct dosage is being used.