PROPER NAME:	Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal)
COMMON NAMES:	Goldenseal extract, Goldenseal Root, Nu Veg Golden, Orange Root, Yellow Puccoon, Ground Raspberry, Wild Curcuma, Turmeric Root, Indian Dye, Eye Root, Indian plant
PARTS USED:	The air dried rhizome with root fibers of the hydrastis canadensis. The major chemical components are alkaloids (hydrastine and berberine).
FORMS:	Over the counter in bulk dry root, capsules, and tincture.
CLAIMS:	Act as an astringent, anti-inflamatory, oxytocic, antihemorrhagic, and laxative. Has been used to treat gastritis, anorexia, eczema, Tuberculosis, cancer, mouth ulcers, tinnitus, and conjunctivitis.
DOSAGE:	Ethanol and water extract: 250 mg by mouth three times per day. Dried rhizome 0.5-1.0 g twice a day.
SIDE EFFECTS:	Irritation of the skin, mouth, and throat, nausea, diarrhea, digestive disorders, constipation, excitatory states, hallucinations, occasionally deleria, bradycardia, nervous system depression, heart block, leukocytosis paralysis, paresthesia, seizures, respiratory depression. Can cause death in large doses. Goldenseal may interact with or contraindicate anticoagulants and antihypertensive agents. The product is not to be used with beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, digoxin, alcohol or benzodiazepines. Goldenseal is contraindicated in person’s with cardiovascular disease (hypertension, congestive heart failure, and arrythmias), and during pregnancy and breast feeding. Chronic use has been reported to decrease vitamin B absorption, promoting its deficiency.

GOLDENSEAL REFERENCES:
The Alternative Advisor. Virginia: Time Life Books, 1997.

Physicians Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines. New Jersey: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.

Fetrow, C.H., Avila, J.R. Professional’s handbook of Complementary and Alternative medicines. Pennsylvania: Springhouse Corporation, 1999.

Disclaimer:
This article is intended to provide basic information only. It is not a recommendation for use or endorsement of any product listed, by the Southeastern Michigan Dietetic Association. Please consult your physician or a health professional before taking any medications or supplements.

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