What are the Uses and Benefits of Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal)?
Introduction
Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) is a perennial herb belonging to the family, Ranunculaceae. It is native to South- Eastern Canada and the Eastern United States.
This plant provides various health benefits. It is commonly used for the treatment of infective disorders, heart diseases and cancer.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Clade: Angiosperms
- Clade: Eudicots
- Order: Ranunculales
- Family: Ranunculaceae
- Subfamily: Hydrastidoideae
- Genus: Hydrastis L.
- Species: H. canadensis
Binomial name
Hydrastis canadensis
Synonyms
Goldenseal, Yellow puccoon.
Description
It is a perennial herb. The stem bear one to three leaves which arise from a creepy rhizome. White flowers appear above the leaves, which later develop in small red fruits. The rhizomes are twisted, yellow and brown in color and wrinkled. It grows in rich shady soil and also cultivated in farms. The flowers of Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) is said to be bloom in April month.
Cultivation
It is very hard to cultivate, the Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) needs a humus-rich, well-drained moist soil, preferably in woodland.
Parts Used Medicinally
Rhizome and dried roots of the plant are used for medicinal purpose.
Phytochemistry (Chemical Composition) of Hydrastis Canadensis
The main active components of Hydrastis Canadensis are alkaloids, including hydrastine and berberastine, berberine, hydrastinine, canadine, tetrahydroberberastine, and canalidine. It may also contain 8-oxotetrahydrothalifendine.
Hydrastine is known to contract the blood vessels and increase blood pressure while berberine kills bacteria and promote the Immune system.
Therapeutic Use of Hydrastis Canadensis
Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) is a natural antibacterial agent. This herb is useful to treat various health problems.
It includes:
Treat Infections
This herb possesses strong antibacterial properties. The antibacterial property of Hydrastis Canadensis is due to the presence of alkaloids (berberine, hydrastine, and canadine) in it. This herb can help in the treatment and inhibition of bacterial infections in the gastrointestinal system, respiratory tract, skin, and the urinary system. It produces an astringent effect on the mucous membranes and reduces inflammation. It also acts as an antiseptic to treat wound infection.
This herb stimulates the functions of the immune system and promotes the ability of the immune cells to recognize and kill the organisms which are responsible for causing infections.
Cancer
Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) may be beneficial for the treatment and prevention of cancer. It helps to reduce the abnormal growth of cancer cells.Thus preventing the condition from worsening.It also acts as an antioxidant and protects the normal cells from damage caused by free radicals. It is effective against various types of cancer including the prostate, colon, breast, esophageal, and pancreatic cancers.
Arrhythmias
Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) can be used as a natural therapy for heart patients especially suffering from arrhythmias. It can support heart functions and regulate heart rate. It can also provide relief from the symptoms such as palpitations, and increased sweating which is associated with arrhythmias.
Berberine and its derivatives help to improve the functions of the heart.
Stomach Upset
Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) helps to improve digestion. It provides relief from stomach upset. It is also known as a natural antibiotic and used in combination with Echinacea to boost the immune system. It also works as an antibacterial agent.
Upper Respiratory Problems
This herb is used to treat the cold, flu or hay fever. It produces an astringent effect and reduces inflammation. It is also useful in treating the sore throat.
Improve Blood Circulation
The rhizome of this herb improves blood circulation. So, it is useful for treating piles, varicose veins and edema.
- It is also used for treating eye and skin infections.
- Use of Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) for masking illegal drugs in urine tests.It has been unsuccessfully used in recent years to mask the use of morphine.
- It is traditionally used for the treatment of peptic ulcer, gastritis, dyspepsia and colitis.
Dosage
For internal use:
Capsule(540mg): Take 1 capsule three times a day.
Tincture: Take 20 drops in water three times a day.
The alkaloids in goldenseal are toxic at high doses. So, never take more than 2 grams a day. Do not use regularly for more than three weeks and take a break of two weeks between courses.
Side Effects of Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal)
- It may include, digestive complaints, nervousness, depression, constipation, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
- High dose of this herb may cause paralysis and breathing problems.
- Its long-term use may lead to vitamin B deficiency, delirium, and hallucinations.
Contraindication
- It is not advised for the patient with high blood pressure.
- It is also not recommended for the people using blood thickening medicines.
- The use of Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) is contraindicated in children and during pregnancy as well.
