How do echinacea and goldenseal boost the immune system. What are the key benefits of combining these herbs. Can echinacea and goldenseal help fight colds and flu. Are there any side effects or precautions to consider when using these herbs.

The Immune-Boosting Power of Echinacea: A Natural Defense Against Illness

Echinacea, a vibrant wildflower native to North America, has long been revered for its potent immune-boosting properties. This purple coneflower, once used by Native American tribes for its medicinal qualities, has become a staple in modern herbal medicine. But how exactly does echinacea work to strengthen our body’s natural defenses?

Echinacea’s primary mechanism of action lies in its ability to stimulate the immune system. It does this by increasing the production and activity of white blood cells, particularly a type called macrophages. These cells act as the body’s first line of defense against invading pathogens, engulfing and destroying harmful microorganisms before they can cause infection.

Research has shown that echinacea can:

• Increase the number of white blood cells in the body
• Enhance the activity of natural killer cells, which target and eliminate virus-infected cells
• Stimulate the production of interferon, a protein that helps regulate the immune response
• Reduce inflammation throughout the body

These immune-enhancing effects make echinacea particularly useful in preventing and treating upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold and flu. Some studies suggest that taking echinacea at the first sign of illness can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, potentially cutting the length of a cold by up to 1.4 days.

Optimal Dosage and Usage of Echinacea

To harness the full potential of echinacea, it’s crucial to use it correctly. For acute infections, higher doses taken at the first sign of symptoms are often recommended. A typical adult dosage might include:

• 300-500 mg of dried herb capsules, taken 3 times daily
• 2-3 ml of liquid extract, taken 3 times daily
• 6-9 ml of expressed juice, taken 3 times daily

For general immune support, lower doses taken regularly may be beneficial. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Goldenseal: The Golden Root of Herbal Medicine

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a perennial herb native to the forests of eastern North America. Its vibrant yellow root has been a cornerstone of traditional medicine for centuries, valued for its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. But what makes goldenseal such a powerful ally in maintaining health and wellness?

The secret lies in goldenseal’s rich alkaloid content, particularly berberine, hydrastine, and canadine. These compounds are responsible for many of the herb’s medicinal effects. Berberine, in particular, has been extensively studied for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and parasites.

Key benefits of goldenseal include:

• Natural antibiotic properties that can help fight bacterial infections
• Anti-inflammatory effects that may soothe digestive issues and skin conditions
• Potential to support liver function and aid in detoxification
• Possible benefits for blood sugar regulation and cardiovascular health

Goldenseal’s versatility makes it a valuable herb for addressing a wide range of health concerns. Its ability to combat harmful microorganisms while supporting the body’s natural healing processes has earned it a reputation as a “cure-all” in herbal medicine circles.

Goldenseal Usage and Precautions

While goldenseal offers numerous potential benefits, it’s important to use it judiciously. Due to its potency, goldenseal is typically used for short periods, often in conjunction with other herbs like echinacea. A common dosage for adults is 500-2000 mg of dried root or 2-4 ml of liquid extract, taken 3 times daily for no more than 3 weeks at a time.

It’s worth noting that goldenseal should not be used during pregnancy or by individuals with certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure or liver disease. Always consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating goldenseal into your wellness routine.

The Synergistic Effects of Combining Echinacea and Goldenseal

When echinacea and goldenseal are combined, their individual strengths create a powerful synergy that can significantly enhance immune function and overall health. This herbal duo has become a popular natural remedy for supporting the body’s defenses, particularly during cold and flu season. But why are these herbs so effective when used together?

The combination of echinacea and goldenseal works on multiple levels to bolster the immune system:

1. Echinacea stimulates the production and activity of immune cells, enhancing the body’s ability to fight off pathogens.
2. Goldenseal’s antimicrobial properties directly combat harmful bacteria and other microorganisms.
3. Both herbs possess anti-inflammatory qualities, which can help reduce symptoms and support the healing process.
4. The herbs may work together to improve the body’s overall resistance to infection and disease.

This complementary action makes echinacea and goldenseal a potent combination for addressing various health concerns, from respiratory infections to digestive issues. Many herbal practitioners recommend using these herbs together at the first sign of illness to potentially shorten the duration and severity of symptoms.

Formulating Effective Echinacea and Goldenseal Blends

When creating supplements that combine echinacea and goldenseal, it’s important to consider the optimal ratio and dosage of each herb. A typical formulation might include:

• 300-500 mg of echinacea (root or aerial parts)
• 100-200 mg of goldenseal root
• Additional supportive herbs or nutrients for enhanced efficacy

These blends are often encapsulated for convenient dosing, but they may also be available as tinctures or liquid extracts. The specific formulation can be tailored to target particular health concerns or to provide general immune support.

Beyond Immune Support: Additional Benefits of Echinacea and Goldenseal

While echinacea and goldenseal are primarily known for their immune-boosting properties, these versatile herbs offer a range of additional health benefits that are often overlooked. Understanding these broader effects can help us appreciate the full potential of these natural remedies.

Echinacea’s benefits extend beyond immune support to include:

• Wound healing: Its anti-inflammatory properties may help accelerate the healing of cuts, burns, and other skin injuries.
• Anxiety reduction: Some studies suggest echinacea may have mild anxiolytic effects, potentially helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Antioxidant protection: The herb contains powerful antioxidants that can help protect cells from oxidative damage.

Goldenseal, on the other hand, offers additional benefits such as:

• Digestive support: Its bitter compounds may stimulate digestive secretions and improve overall gut health.
• Skin health: Applied topically, goldenseal may help treat minor skin infections and inflammation.
• Respiratory health: The herb’s antimicrobial properties may be beneficial for various respiratory conditions.

When combined, echinacea and goldenseal create a comprehensive herbal remedy that supports not only immune function but also overall health and wellbeing. This makes them valuable additions to a holistic approach to wellness.

The Science Behind Echinacea and Goldenseal: Understanding the Research

As interest in natural remedies continues to grow, so does the body of scientific research exploring the efficacy of herbs like echinacea and goldenseal. While traditional use and anecdotal evidence have long supported their benefits, modern studies are shedding new light on how these plants interact with our bodies at a cellular level.

Recent research on echinacea has focused on its immunomodulatory effects. A 2019 systematic review published in the journal “Complementary Therapies in Medicine” analyzed multiple studies and concluded that echinacea supplementation could significantly reduce the incidence and duration of upper respiratory tract infections. The review suggested that echinacea’s effects were most pronounced when taken as a preventative measure or at the very onset of symptoms.

For goldenseal, much of the scientific interest has centered on berberine, its primary active compound. A 2020 study in the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” explored berberine’s potential as an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent. The researchers found that berberine exhibited strong activity against a range of pathogenic bacteria, including some antibiotic-resistant strains.

While these findings are promising, it’s important to note that more large-scale, high-quality clinical trials are needed to fully understand the effects and optimal use of echinacea and goldenseal. Current research, however, does provide a scientific basis for many of the traditional uses of these herbs.

Challenges in Herbal Research

Studying herbal remedies like echinacea and goldenseal presents unique challenges:

• Standardization: The potency of herbal preparations can vary based on factors like growing conditions and extraction methods.
• Complex interactions: Herbs contain multiple active compounds that may work synergistically, making it difficult to isolate individual effects.
• Funding limitations: Herbal research often receives less funding compared to pharmaceutical studies.

Despite these challenges, ongoing research continues to expand our understanding of these powerful plant medicines.

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects of Echinacea and Goldenseal

While echinacea and goldenseal are generally considered safe for most people when used appropriately, it’s crucial to be aware of potential side effects and interactions. As with any herbal supplement, individual responses can vary, and certain precautions should be observed.

Potential side effects of echinacea may include:

• Gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or stomach pain
• Allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with sensitivities to plants in the daisy family
• Headaches or dizziness in some users

Goldenseal, while generally well-tolerated, may cause:

• Digestive discomfort or constipation
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight
• Potential interactions with certain medications, particularly those metabolized by the liver

It’s important to note that goldenseal should not be used during pregnancy, as it may stimulate uterine contractions. Both herbs should be used with caution in individuals with autoimmune disorders, as their immune-stimulating effects could potentially exacerbate symptoms.

Drug Interactions and Contraindications

Echinacea and goldenseal may interact with certain medications:

• Immunosuppressants: These herbs could potentially interfere with drugs used to suppress the immune system.
• Blood thinners: Goldenseal may increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant medications.
• Liver-metabolized drugs: Goldenseal can affect how the liver processes certain medications, potentially altering their effectiveness.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new herbal regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Sustainable Sourcing and Environmental Considerations for Echinacea and Goldenseal

As the popularity of echinacea and goldenseal continues to grow, concerns about sustainability and conservation have come to the forefront. Both plants, particularly goldenseal, face challenges due to overharvesting and habitat loss. How can we ensure that our use of these valuable herbs doesn’t contribute to their depletion in the wild?

Sustainable practices for echinacea and goldenseal include:

• Cultivated sourcing: Encouraging the use of cultivated plants rather than wild-harvested specimens
• Ethical wild-crafting: When wild harvesting is necessary, employing techniques that allow for regeneration
• Habitat preservation: Supporting conservation efforts to protect the natural habitats of these plants
• Consumer education: Raising awareness about the importance of sustainably sourced herbs

Many reputable supplement companies now prioritize sustainable sourcing for their herbal products. By choosing supplements from these responsible manufacturers, consumers can support the long-term viability of these important medicinal plants.

The Role of Certification in Herbal Sustainability

Various certification programs have emerged to help consumers identify sustainably sourced herbal products:

• Forest Grown Verified: A program that certifies sustainably wild-harvested and forest-farmed botanicals
• USDA Organic: While primarily focused on cultivation practices, organic certification often aligns with sustainable harvesting methods
• Fair Wild: A certification that ensures wild plant ingredients are harvested sustainably and that collectors are paid fairly

Looking for these certifications can help guide consumers towards more environmentally responsible choices when purchasing echinacea and goldenseal supplements.

Integrating Echinacea and Goldenseal into a Holistic Wellness Routine

While echinacea and goldenseal can be powerful allies in maintaining health, they are most effective when incorporated into a comprehensive wellness strategy. How can these herbs be integrated into a holistic approach to health and wellbeing?

A well-rounded wellness routine that includes echinacea and goldenseal might involve:

1. Regular, moderate use of echinacea for immune support, particularly during high-risk seasons
2. Short-term use of goldenseal for acute conditions, under the guidance of a healthcare provider
3. Complementary herbs and supplements to address specific health concerns
4. A nutrient-rich, balanced diet to support overall health
5. Regular exercise and stress-management practices
6. Adequate sleep and hydration

By combining these elements, individuals can create a synergistic approach to wellness that leverages the benefits of echinacea and goldenseal while supporting overall health through lifestyle choices.

Personalized Herbal Protocols

Working with a qualified herbalist or naturopathic doctor can help in developing a personalized protocol that incorporates echinacea and goldenseal effectively. These professionals can take into account individual health histories, current conditions, and specific wellness goals to create a tailored approach to herbal supplementation.

Remember that herbal medicine is just one component of a holistic health strategy. While echinacea and goldenseal offer valuable support, they should be viewed as part of a broader commitment to wellness that encompasses nutrition, exercise, stress management, and overall lifestyle choices.

Echinacea & Goldenseal – Reliance Private Label Supplements

Echinacea & Goldenseal – Reliance Private Label Supplements

Product ID: 712

Product Type: Capsule

Immunity

Available Sizes

*Minimum purchase quantity is 6 per SKU.

Echinacea is a wildflower (purple coneflower) native to North America. While Echinacea continues to grow and is harvested from the wild, the majority used for herbal supplements comes from cultivated plants. The root and/or the above-ground part of the plant during the flowering growth phase are used in herbal medicine. Echinacea is famous as an immune builder. For immune deficiency, Echinacea can help stop an acute oncoming cold, flu, or infection if used in large doses at the first sign of immune breakdown.^† The larger acute doses below will assist in warding off oncoming acute bacterial and viral infections (such as colds and flu).^† Echinacea will excite the immune system to fight off microbes before they dominate an organ system and create symptoms or pathology. ^† Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis) is one of the most popular herbs on the market today. It was traditionally used by Native Americans to treat skin disorders, digestive problems, liver conditions, diarrhea, and eye irritations. Goldenseal became part of early colonial medical care as the European settlers learned of it from the Iroquois and other tribes.

Features

• Echinacea purpurea root extract 6:1, 33mg
• Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis) root, 200mg
• Proprietary blend, 75mg: (Burdock (Arctium lappa) root, Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) root, Red clover (Trifolium pratense) blossoms, Ginger (Zingiber offinale) root, Cayenne (Capsicum annuum) fruit.

Benefits

• Echinacea stimulates phagocytosis (the ingesting or engulfing of cells, including white blood cells) to help clean up foreign bodies and increases the number of white blood cells.^†
• It helps prevent and reverse necrosis (tissue degradation where pus forms from infection) from wounds. ^†
• Echinacea helps “activate” the immune system and stimulate certain immune cells that are critical to maintaining overall health.^†
• Echinacea helps keep the respiratory system healthy when challenged, particularly during winter months.^†
• Echinacea’s history began when Echinacea purpurea was used by the Great Plains Indians as a painkiller with anti-inflammatory properties.^†
• As an herb that appears to aid in liver cleansing and detoxification, Goldenseal is often used as a balancing herb in conjunction with herbs like Echinacea, which is believed to help clean the blood.^†
• The supportive herbal blend contains herbs that may have natural, mild diuretic effects (Burdock, Dandelion, and Red Clover), may aid in managing inflammation (Ginger), and promote improved circulation and absorption (Cayenne).^†

^†These statements have not been evaluated by The Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

EXPLORE OUR PRODUCT CATALOG

Remember me

Forgot Password?

Lost your password? Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.

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 on iHerb: otzyvok LiveJournal

Best Echinacea & Goldenseal reviews

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

Discount promo code: MAT6375

Buy

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Valid This combination works great! Ordered after how 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! Originally 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 started giving it, 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 severe symptoms of SARS. As a result, everything resulted in Tracheitis, I switched to conventional medicines. In my opinion, a useless tool.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

excellent combination Drinking student sister. Given the regular trips by 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 customer reviews

Discount promo code: MAT6375

Buy

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Valid This combination works great! Ordered after how 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! Originally 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 started giving it, 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 severe symptoms of SARS. As a result, everything resulted in Tracheitis, I switched to conventional medicines. In my opinion, a useless tool.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

excellent combination Drinking student sister. Given the regular trips by 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) customer reviews

Promo code for discount: MAT6375

Buy

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Great cold remedy Excellent remedy for the first symptoms and even for ongoing colds! 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.

Evaluation: ⭐⭐⭐

Stopped taking the drug Stopped taking the drug for my daughter because of the allergy (((

Evaluation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐

Working I’m taking my child for autumn-winter
More Reviews

Nature’s Way, Echinacea & Goldenseal, 99.

9% Alcohol-Free, 30 ml Reviews buyers

Promo code for discount: MAT6375

Buy

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Good I start to give it as a result, it does not turn into a disease. 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 signs of illness does not make you sick.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Working Working echinacea unlike Childlife

Rating: ⭐

I took it according to the Promotion From this I am happy in twins))) 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 recommend to all parents who are going to take their children to the kindergarten!!!
More reviews

Echinacea for immunity: my personal choice

Every year I write about “immune” remedies in cold prevention schemes, but there was no separate post about echinacea! Echinacea for immunity and supplement options tested on myself =)

Today I will tell about the echinacea options that I tried and recommend buying on iHerb. There will also be a review of the supplement Echinamide for the autumn season. She is present here, in the ″list for adults″ =)

Echinacea for immunity is divided into adult and children’s options. They differ in the concentration of the active substance, in the extractant and additional herbs in the composition. Always pay attention to the age recommendations of the child you are buying echinacea for!

Another nuance that few people know about and talk about.

Do not use Echinacea in case of allergy to Compositae . iHerb has special echinacea root and seed supplement options without extracting the flowers. They reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.

Echinacea for Immunity: Adult Options

Echinacea Echinaforce is considered the “reference” of Echinacea supplements for immunity. This is an extract of Echinacea purpurea: the flowering ground part and roots of the plant. He has confirmed in numerous studies his ability to strengthen the immune system and reduce the incidence of viruses.

Vogel is located in Switzerland. It grows medicinal herbs under its own control and processes them fresh, according to ″fresh extraction″ technology and pharmacopoeial standards. The brand has Bronchosan, a wonderful cough supplement, from my medicine cabinet.

Where to buy: A Vogel, Echinaforce, Fresh Herb Extract

Echinamide is standardized and clinically tested with proven immune-boosting properties. It is produced according to a patented technology, with a specified content of Echinacea purpurea ingredients: alkylamides, polysaccharides and acidic acid.

Echinacea is grown on an organic farm in Canada’s Okanagan region, freshly harvested by hand. For prevention, drink 1-2 capsules a day, in the first days of a cold, 1 capsule up to 5 times a day.

Where to Buy: Natural Factors, Echinamide

Gaia Herbs Organic Echinacea: This brand has concentrated, rich extracts and Echinacea is no exception. It contains a combination of extracts of two types of Echinacea: Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia.

Spirit extract, based on wheat alcohol. Certified organic, USDA Organic label. Recommendation for adults: dilute 40-60 drops in warm water and take 4 times a day, in a course.

In this section you can buy ready-made supplement programs

Where to buy: Gaia Herbs, Echinacea Supreme, Organic

Echinacea for children

Echinus supplements cei for children are more common in combination with other immune herbs . For example, echinacea liquid extract with goldenseal canadian , in my photo.

Herbs are combined for the sake of synergy (increased action), because in children the immune system is much weaker and only developing. The extract is suitable for children from 2 years old, dosage recommendations on the website.

Where to buy: Gaia Herbs, Kids, Echinacea Goldenseal Drops

Pure Echinacea tincture is available for younger children and is suitable for 6 months and older.