Goldenseal
Hydrastis canadensis
Hydrastis canadensis, commonly known as goldenseal, is a perennial plant native to North America. Traditionally used by Indigenous peoples for various purposes, including treating digestive issues and eye infections, its specific traditional uses are not extensively documented in modern literature. Scientific evidence suggests potential medicinal benefits of Hydrastis canadensis. A study noted that within four weeks of adding goldenseal root extract, symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder improved significantly in a treatment-intolerant adolescent. Additionally, compounds from the plant showed promise as inhibitors of the Na⁺-NQR enzyme in Vibrio cholerae and demonstrated varying sensitivity to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with enhanced activity when used in combination with certain permeabilizers. Furthermore, goldenseal exhibited synergistic antifungal activity, particularly when combined with punicalagin from pomegranate. Safety profiles for Hydrastis canadensis are generally favorable; no major issues have been recorded. Similarly, there is currently no reported evidence of significant drug interactions associated with the use of this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Within four weeks of adding goldenseal root extract, symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder markedly improved in a treatment-intolerant adolescent.
- The study identified compounds from Hydrastis canadensis that showed potential as inhibitors of the Na⁺-NQR enzyme in Vibrio cholerae.
- Hydrastis canadensis showed varying sensitivity to Gram-positive bacteria, with enhanced activity against Gram-negative bacteria when used with certain permeabilizers.
- Hydrastis canadensis showed synergistic antifungal activity, particularly with punicalagin from Punica granatum, against Candida albicans.
Frequently asked questions
What is Goldenseal?
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Goldenseal?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Goldenseal; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Within four weeks of adding goldenseal root extract, symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder markedly improved in a treatment-intolerant adolescent.
How strong is the evidence for Goldenseal?
The strongest finding for Goldenseal carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Goldenseal safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Goldenseal in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Goldenseal interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Goldenseal in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Goldenseal?
Goldenseal is also known as: Желтокорень, fard inolien.
Is Goldenseal a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 In vitro evaluation the spectrum of antibacterial activity of botanical extracts and activity enhancement with outer membrane permeabilizers. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Machine learning-guided in Silico identification of Na⁺-NQR inhibitors from Berberis vulgaris and Hydrastis Canadensis phytochemicals against Vibrio cholerae. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Synergistic antifungal effects of botanical extracts against Candida albicans. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Marked Improvement in Treatment-Intolerant Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in an Adolescent Using a Glutamatergic Regimen With Dextromethorphan, Piracetam, and Goldenseal Root. literature abstract metadata