Named for its glowing yellow roots, found growing in rich, healthy forest ecosystems, Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a revered and powerful herbal remedy. Known locally as Yellow Root, our Goldenseal is harvested from vibrant, abundant stands, stewarded for 9 generations on the family land of our staff herbalist. Before that time, this patch was certainly caretaken by the Indigenous Tribes of our region. It is our heartfelt mission to ensure that we respect this lineage, by ensuring that we increase the population size of this at-risk Appalachian perennial, through responsible harvesting and propagation methods.
From every root that we dig, we take at least one healthy cutting, including the already-formed bud that will become next years spring shoot, planting it back into an ideal location, ensuring that we never deplete this precious resource. Additionally, we use the whole plant in our extract, roots, stem and fresh green leaves. The entire plant contains the valued medicinal constituents and we refuse to waste one drop!
What are the Benefits of Goldenseal?
While Goldenseal is most commonly known as an herb for colds and flus, this plant is actually not particularly anti-viral. It is the ability of this plant to tonify the membranes found within our respiratory and digestive tracts which make it a profound ally in reducing the severity of symptoms from our common respiratory viruses.
It is as a renowned anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and antiprotozoal remedy of the digestive system where our Goldenseal stands most proudly and effectively. For such conditions,
including many types of food and water-poisoning, including giardia, there are not many superior options to be found amongst ancient nor modern approaches.
Continuing along the wide-ranging digestive benefits of this herb, we also use Goldenseal to promote healthy biliary functions, and to reduce symptoms of general dyspepsia. Another important and widely used bacteria-fighting application is as a mouth rinse, to promote overall dental health. Just make sure to dilute the tincture appropriately in order to avoid irritating your gums with the alcohol-based extract! We also witness liver-supportive qualities from our dear yellow friend, helping to reduce inflammation and support overall hepatic functionality.
Goldenseal Dosages
While full-dosage uses of this powerful herb are best applied under the supervision of a trained herbalist, in working with conditions that truly warrant its usage- it can be a great herb for what we call drop-dosage. This is a low dosage method, whereby 1 to 3 drops are mixed with a teaspoon of water and taken before meals.
Used thusly, as a bitter tonic, goldenseal can help balance a healthy appetite and promote digestive health for those with many different types of digestive complaints. It is generally recommended to avoid use, or to use cautiously in instances of high blood pressure.
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