What does echinacea and goldenseal do. Echinacea and Goldenseal: Powerful Herbal Remedies for Immune Support and Infection Prevention

21.09.202215.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are the key benefits of echinacea and goldenseal. How do these herbs work together to boost immunity. What is the recommended dosage for optimal results. Are there any potential side effects to be aware of. How can echinacea and goldenseal help with respiratory infections.

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The Power of Echinacea and Goldenseal: Nature’s Dynamic Duo

Echinacea and goldenseal have long been revered in traditional medicine for their potent healing properties. These two herbs, native to North America, have gained popularity worldwide for their potential to support immune function and combat various ailments. Understanding their individual and combined benefits can help you harness their full potential for better health.

Echinacea: The Immune Booster

Echinacea, derived from the coneflower plant, has been a staple in herbal medicine for centuries. Its primary claim to fame is its ability to enhance immune function and potentially reduce the risk of respiratory infections.

Stimulates the production of white blood cells
May shorten the duration of colds and flu
Possesses anti-inflammatory properties
Could help alleviate symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections

Goldenseal: The Natural Antibiotic

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a perennial herb prized for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its roots and leaves have been used to treat various conditions, particularly those involving infections or inflammation.

Rich in alkaloid compounds, including berberine, hydrastine, and canadine
May help fight bacterial and viral infections
Used to treat skin disorders, digestive issues, and respiratory infections
Often combined with echinacea in over-the-counter cold and flu remedies

The Synergistic Effects of Echinacea and Goldenseal

When combined, echinacea and goldenseal create a powerful herbal remedy that may offer enhanced benefits for immune support and infection prevention. Their complementary properties work together to provide a multi-faceted approach to health.

Does the combination of echinacea and goldenseal offer superior benefits compared to using each herb individually? While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that the combination may provide a more comprehensive immune-boosting effect. Echinacea’s ability to stimulate immune function, coupled with goldenseal’s antibacterial properties, could create a more robust defense against pathogens.

Targeting Upper Respiratory Tract Infections and the Common Cold

One of the most popular uses for echinacea and goldenseal is in the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections, including the common cold. These herbs are often found in combination formulas designed to support immune function and alleviate cold symptoms.

Can echinacea and goldenseal actually prevent or treat the common cold? While evidence is mixed, some studies have shown promising results. Echinacea may help reduce the risk of catching a cold and shorten its duration, while goldenseal’s antibacterial properties could potentially help fight secondary bacterial infections that sometimes accompany viral colds.

The Role of Berberine

Berberine, a key compound found in goldenseal, has been the subject of numerous studies investigating its potential health benefits. This alkaloid has demonstrated antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory and animal studies.

How does berberine contribute to the health benefits of goldenseal? Berberine may help fight infections caused by various bacteria and viruses, including those responsible for the common cold. However, it’s important to note that the concentration of berberine in goldenseal supplements may be lower than that used in studies, and its absorption may differ from concentrated berberine supplements.

Beyond Respiratory Health: Additional Benefits of Echinacea and Goldenseal

While these herbs are primarily known for their immune-boosting properties, they may offer additional health benefits that extend beyond respiratory health.

Potential Benefits for Urinary Tract and Yeast Infections

Goldenseal, in particular, has been traditionally used to address urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections. The berberine in goldenseal may help prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls, potentially reducing the risk of UTIs. Additionally, it may help keep Candida albicans, a fungus naturally present in the body, from overgrowth, which can lead to yeast infections.

Skin Health and Wound Healing

Both echinacea and goldenseal have been used topically to promote skin health and wound healing. Their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties may help soothe skin irritations, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection in minor cuts and scrapes.

Dosage and Administration: Maximizing the Benefits

To harness the full potential of echinacea and goldenseal, it’s crucial to understand proper dosage and administration. While individual needs may vary, there are general guidelines to follow.

What is the recommended dosage for echinacea and goldenseal? For echinacea, typical dosages range from 300 to 500 mg of dried herb or 2.5 to 5 mL of liquid extract, taken three times daily. Goldenseal is often taken in doses of 250 to 1000 mg, three times daily. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Forms of Administration

Echinacea and goldenseal are available in various forms, including:

Capsules or tablets
Liquid extracts or tinctures
Teas
Topical creams or ointments

The choice of form may depend on personal preference and the specific condition being addressed. For instance, teas may be soothing for sore throats, while capsules offer convenient, precise dosing.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While echinacea and goldenseal are generally considered safe for most people when used as directed, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and interactions.

Common Side Effects

Some individuals may experience mild side effects when taking echinacea or goldenseal, including:

Nausea or upset stomach
Dizziness
Headache
Dry mouth
Skin rash (particularly with echinacea)

Precautions and Contraindications

Are there any individuals who should avoid taking echinacea and goldenseal? These herbs may not be suitable for everyone. Caution is advised for:

Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Individuals with autoimmune disorders
Those taking certain medications, including blood thinners and immunosuppressants
People with allergies to plants in the daisy family (for echinacea)

It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new herbal supplement, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Debunking Myths: Echinacea, Goldenseal, and Drug Tests

One persistent myth surrounding goldenseal is its alleged ability to help individuals pass drug tests. This belief has led some people to use goldenseal as a “detox” agent or to mask the presence of illegal substances in urine samples.

Can goldenseal really help you pass a drug test? Despite popular belief, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. In fact, modern drug testing methods can detect the presence of goldenseal in urine samples, which may raise suspicion and potentially lead to further testing. Using goldenseal to attempt to cheat a drug test is not only ineffective but could also have legal consequences.

The Truth About Detoxification

While some proponents claim that goldenseal can help “detox” the body from toxins and harmful substances, this assertion lacks scientific backing. The human body is naturally equipped with sophisticated detoxification systems, primarily centered in the liver and kidneys.

How does the body naturally detoxify itself? The liver converts toxic compounds into harmless substances, while the kidneys filter waste products from the blood and excrete them through urine. Sweat glands also play a role in eliminating certain toxins. Rather than relying on herbal supplements for detoxification, focusing on supporting these natural processes through a healthy diet, adequate hydration, and regular exercise is more beneficial.

Quality Matters: Choosing the Right Echinacea and Goldenseal Products

To reap the full benefits of echinacea and goldenseal, it’s crucial to choose high-quality products from reputable sources. The effectiveness of herbal supplements can vary greatly depending on factors such as growing conditions, harvesting methods, and processing techniques.

Tips for Selecting Quality Supplements

Look for products from well-established, reputable brands
Check for third-party testing and quality certifications
Read labels carefully to ensure you’re getting the correct species and plant parts
Consider standardized extracts for more consistent potency
Avoid products with unnecessary fillers or additives

How can you ensure you’re getting a high-quality echinacea and goldenseal supplement? One approach is to look for products that have been certified by independent organizations such as USP (United States Pharmacopeia) or NSF International. These certifications indicate that the product has been tested for quality, purity, and potency.

Understanding Supplement Labels

When selecting echinacea and goldenseal products, it’s important to understand what you’re looking at on the label. Pay attention to:

Species name (e.g., Echinacea purpurea, Hydrastis canadensis)
Plant part used (e.g., root, aerial parts)
Standardization information (if applicable)
Dosage recommendations
Expiration date

Integrating Echinacea and Goldenseal into a Holistic Health Approach

While echinacea and goldenseal can be powerful allies in supporting immune function and overall health, they are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive wellness strategy. These herbs should complement, not replace, other healthy lifestyle practices.

Complementary Health Practices

To maximize the benefits of echinacea and goldenseal, consider incorporating these complementary health practices:

Maintain a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
Engage in regular physical activity
Prioritize adequate sleep and stress management
Practice good hygiene, including frequent hand washing
Stay hydrated
Consider other immune-supporting supplements, such as vitamin C and zinc

How can you create a holistic health plan that includes echinacea and goldenseal? Start by assessing your current health status and goals. Work with a healthcare provider or qualified herbalist to develop a personalized plan that incorporates these herbs alongside other beneficial practices. Remember that consistency is key â€“ the effects of herbal supplements often build up over time.

Seasonal Considerations

Many people find it beneficial to use echinacea and goldenseal seasonally, particularly during cold and flu season. This approach may help bolster immune defenses when they’re most needed, while avoiding potential overuse.

Is it safe to take echinacea and goldenseal long-term? While these herbs are generally considered safe for short-term use, long-term safety data is limited. Some experts recommend taking breaks from these supplements periodically to prevent potential side effects or decreased effectiveness. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on long-term use.

The Future of Echinacea and Goldenseal Research

As interest in natural remedies continues to grow, so does scientific research into the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of herbs like echinacea and goldenseal. Ongoing studies are exploring new applications and seeking to better understand how these plants interact with the human body.

Emerging Areas of Research

Some exciting areas of current and future research include:

The potential anti-cancer properties of echinacea and goldenseal compounds
The role of these herbs in managing chronic inflammatory conditions
The impact of echinacea and goldenseal on gut health and the microbiome
The development of standardized, more bioavailable formulations
Potential synergistic effects with other herbs and natural compounds

What can we expect from future research on echinacea and goldenseal? As scientific methods become more sophisticated, we may gain a deeper understanding of the specific compounds responsible for these herbs’ effects and how they interact with various bodily systems. This could lead to more targeted and effective applications in both traditional and modern medicine.

The Importance of Clinical Trials

While laboratory and animal studies have shown promising results for echinacea and goldenseal, more robust clinical trials in humans are needed to fully validate their effectiveness for various health conditions. These trials will help establish optimal dosages, identify potential long-term effects, and determine which populations may benefit most from these herbs.

As research progresses, it’s important to stay informed about the latest findings and recommendations. Consult with healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable about herbal medicine and keep an open dialogue about incorporating echinacea, goldenseal, and other natural remedies into your health regimen.

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).