Herbal Extract
Goldenseal Root Powder
Also known as: Hydrastis canadensis, Goldenseal, Hydrastis, Yellow root
Goldenseal is a traditional North American herb traditionally used for immune support and digestive health, containing the alkaloid berberine as its primary active compound. Clinical evidence for efficacy is limited and inconsistent, with most studies examining berberine rather than goldenseal extract directly.
Primary uses
- Immune support
- Upper respiratory health
- Digestive support
- Traditional use for infection
How it works
- Berberine-mediated antimicrobial activity (in vitro)
- Potential immunomodulation
- Traditional use for mucous membrane support
Dosage
- Typical range
- 500–1000 mg daily (as dried root powder)
- Timing
- With meals
- With food
- Recommended with food to minimize digestive upset
- Duration
- Traditional use suggests short-term use (2–4 weeks); long-term safety data limited
- Special populations
- Avoid during pregnancy/lactation and in infants; use cautiously with hepatic impairment
Forms
- Powder· 70/100
- Capsule· 70/100
- Extract· 70/100
- Tincture· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Digestive upset
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Altered gut flora (with prolonged use)
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Infants and young children
- Hyperbilirubinemia (elevated bilirubin)
- Significant hepatic disease
- G6PD deficiency
Evidence notes
Limited human clinical trials specific to goldenseal root. Most evidence is traditional use, in vitro antimicrobial data, or studies on isolated berberine. Lacks robust RCT evidence for primary claimed uses.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
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