Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) – a kind of plant belonging to the family Ranunculaceae, widely used in herbalism. A therapeutic agent is a rhizome of goldenseal, which contains alkaloid compounds - berberine and hydrastine. These compounds are responsible for antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of the plant, which is traditionally used as a natural antibiotic in various infections and colds.
This plant supports the work of the digestive system to a larger extent than berberine, increasing the secretion of bile, decreasing bloating, constipations and intestinal contractions. Goldenseal extract have antibacterial and antiparasitic effect, i.a. on Helicobacter pylori, S. aureus, Shigella, Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica or Trichomonas vaginalis. Goldenseal extracts stimulate the immune system, strengthening the organism’s immunity. Moreover, this plant demonstrates anti-inflammatory activity, thanks to inhibiting the main pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Thanks to the content of berberine, goldenseal has hypoglycemic effect mainly on the atherogenic fraction of cholesterol LDL, decreases the level of glucose in blood, facilitating maintaining proper body mass and influences the decrease of blood pressure.
Preparations with goldenseal are especially recommended in the states of lower immunity, as an element of prophylaxis of colds, in disorders of sugar and lipids balance, bladder inflammation, supportively in SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) and in order to prevent the development of the cardiovascular system diseases and obesity.