Nowadays, many people use various herbal remedies, that is, traditional herbs, for various diseases or to stay healthy, right? Sometimes we are tempted to use these after hearing something from a friend or seeing it on the internet. One such herb that is being talked about by many people is Goldenseal. Perhaps you have also heard this name. So today, let's see what Goldenseal is, does it really have the benefits it claims to have, and is there any risk in using it.
What exactly is Goldenseal?
Simply put, goldenseal is a plant native to North America. That is, it is not something that grows in our country. Since ancient times, the indigenous people of North America have used this plant as a treatment for various ailments. For example, it is said that they have used it for itchy eyes, mouth ulcers, various infections, and even tuberculosis.
The scientific name of this plant is `(Hydrastis Canadensis L.)`. It is also called `yellow root`. The reason for this is that the roots of this plant take on a yellow and brown color. Those roots are mainly used as a herb. The plant also produces small flowers, fringed leaves, and small fruits.
Most goldenseal products on the market today are made from commercially grown plants, as naturally occurring plants are threatened with extinction due to overharvesting.
What are the health benefits of this herb?
When it comes to goldenseal, there are many health benefits to be found, but the most important thing is that there is still no strong enough medical evidence to support many of these claims. Most of them are based on traditional knowledge and anecdotal evidence. Let's take a look at some of the main benefits.
| Claimed Health Benefit | Medical explanation |
|---|---|
| Relief for the eyes | It is found in some herbal eyewashes used to treat eye infections and allergies. However, medical research has not yet proven that it provides any relief. Also, some studies show that the ingredient berberine in this herb can damage the cells of the lens of the eye if applied to the eye in large amounts. |
| Symptoms of Herpes | Traditional healers believe that it helps herpes sores heal faster, but no medical evidence has yet been found for this. |
| Helps the digestive system | This has shown some success. Goldenseal has antimicrobial properties, so studies suggest it may help with conditions like bacterial diarrhea and gastritis. In one study, berberine given with antibiotics was more effective than antibiotics alone. However, more research is needed on this. |
| Preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) | A compound called berberine is believed to prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract and bladder, which is thought to help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). But like everything else, more research is needed to prove this definitively. |
| Improving immunity | Two alkaloids found in goldenseal, berberine and hydrastine, appear to support the immune system. They kill bacteria and help reduce inflammation in the body. That's why they're said to help with things like colds and sore throats. But how exactly this works and what the right dosage is are still under research. |
The most important thing is that none of these benefits have been definitively proven, so you should avoid using this as a "magic bullet."
What are the risks of using Goldenseal? - Be especially careful with this!
This is the most important part of this article, because as well as talking about the benefits, it is also important to be aware of the harm that something can cause.
- Lack of research: As we mentioned earlier, much of the talk about this herb is based on traditional beliefs. It may be safe to use it short-term, but there is not enough data to say for sure what the effects of long-term use might be.
- Product quality: This is a big issue. In a study conducted in the United States, some Goldenseal supplements on the market did not contain the amount of the herb as stated on the label. Some did not contain any Goldenseal at all, but instead contained other substances. So imagine, how dangerous is it if you pay for something and it does not benefit you at all, or if you ingest something you do not know about?
Very harmful for pregnant and lactating mothers!
This is not something to be taken lightly . Goldenseal can be very harmful to pregnant mothers and newborn babies.
Goldenseal can cause jaundice in newborn babies. If the baby already has jaundice, this can make it worse.
This severe jaundice can lead to a very dangerous and rare condition called kernicterus . Simply put, this causes damage to the baby's brain. Symptoms of kernicterus include:
- Baby is constantly sleepy (lethargy)
- Muscle spasms
- Appetite
- Respiratory distress
A child with this condition will have to live with various complications throughout their lives. For example, severe conditions such as speech difficulties, learning disabilities, and hearing loss can occur. Therefore, if you are pregnant, expecting a baby, or breastfeeding, do not use the herb goldenseal for any reason.
May interact with other medications you are taking (Drug Interactions)
When you use Goldenseal, the way your body processes (metabolizes) other medications may change. This means that if you are taking medication for diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, or any other condition, Goldenseal may change how well those medications work. The effects of the medications may be increased or decreased. Both of these are dangerous.
Therefore, if you are taking any medication, I repeat, definitely, definitely talk to your doctor and get permission before taking an herbal supplement like this.
What dosage and methods should be used?
There is no specific recommended dosage for this because not enough research has been done on it. It can be found in various forms on the market.
- In liquid form (Tinctures)
- Capsules
- Powders
- Extracts
- Tea
If you are using such a product, follow the instructions on the package. However, while following those instructions, as we mentioned earlier, it is wiser and safer to consult your doctor before starting to use it.
Take-Home Message
- Goldenseal is a herb native to North America. Although it is said to have many major health benefits, many of them lack major strong scientific evidence.
- Many of the claimed benefits of this herb (e.g., eye relief, herpes, immunity) have not been medically proven. They are based on traditional beliefs.
- This is very dangerous for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. It can cause severe jaundice in newborns and a condition called kernicterus, which can damage the brain.
- If you are taking medication for other conditions, using goldenseal may affect the effectiveness of those medications.
- Issues may arise regarding the quality and ingredients of products available in the market.
- Most importantly: Before using any herbal supplement like this, be sure to consult your family doctor (doctor).
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