Goldenseal

At a Glance

Common name

Goldenseal

Scientific name

Hydrastis canadensis

Family

Ranunculaceae

Region

North America

Plant part

Root (rhizome)

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Limited

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A low perennial with a single large deeply lobed palmate wrinkled green leaf, a small white flower, and a knobby bright-yellow branching rhizome; the root/rhizome is used.

Also known as: Yellow Root, Orange Root, Eyebalm

Historical Background

Goldenseal has been an Indigenous North American medicine for centuries, its vivid yellow berberine-rich root prized for mucous membranes, wounds, and infection. Overharvesting has made it endangered in the wild, and it remains a potent, practitioner-guided bitter herb rather than an everyday tea.

Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous North American traditions for centuries; a bright-yellow bitter root for mucous membranes and infection.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Bitter, earthy, slightly astringent

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Goldenseal has a tradition as a bitter antimicrobial for mucous membranes and wounds; berberine shows broad antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. Clinical evidence in humans is limited; it is not a treatment for infection, cold, diarrhea, or any disease, and its endangered status and strong alkaloids warrant cautious, short-term, practitioner-guided use.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.