Hydrastis canadensis

Hydrastis canadensis [Image]. [2014]. Retrieved from: http://www.prairiemoon.com/seeds/wildflowers-forbs/hydrastis-canadensis-goldenseal.html

Common name: 
Golden seal

(Hoffman, 1983, 198)

Latin binomial:
Hydrastis canadensis
(Hoffman, 1983, 198)

Family: 
Ranunculaceae

(Hoffman, 1983, 198)

Parts used:
Root and rhizome
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 234)

Active contituents:

• Alkaloids; Hydrastine, Berberine, Canadine
• Traces of essential oil
• Ressin
• Fatty oil

(Hoffman, 1983, 198)

Actions:

• Anti-catarrah
• Tonic
• astringent
• Laxative
• Muscular stimulant
• Oxytocic
• Bitter

(Hoffman, 1983, 198)

 

Indications:

• Used on the mucous membranes
• Digestive problems; Gastritis, septic ulcerations, colitis, loss of apeptite
• URT catarral
• Menorrhagia
• Haemorrhages
• Used during child birth
• Externally it is used for the treatment of eczema, ringworm, pruritis, ear ache and conjunctivitis

(Hoffman, 1983, 198)

Contraindications: 
Should be avoided during pregnancy due to the stimulating affects it can have on the muscles of the uterus.
(Hoffman, 1983, 198)

Dosage:

• Infusion: Poor 1 cup of boiling water over 1/2-1 teapsoon of the powdered herb and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes, drink 3 times daily. 
• Tincture: Take 2-4 ml of the tincture, 3 times daily. 

(Hoffman, 1983, 198)

Combinations:

• In stomach conditions it can be combined with Meadow sweet and Chamomile. 
• In uterine hemorrhages it is best combined with Beth root. 
• Externally it can be used as a wash for irritation and itching combining well with  Witch hazel. 
• As an ear drop it can be combined with Mullien.  

(Hoffman, 1983, 198)


References:

Hoffman, D. (1983) The holistic herbal. Element books: Dorset.