Goldenseal

Identity

Common Name

Goldenseal

Scientific Name

Hydrastis canadensis

Botanical Family

Ranunculaceae

Native Region

Eastern North America

Cultivation Regions

Eastern North America (cultivated)

Plant Parts Used

Root (rhizome)

Synonyms

Yellow Root, Orange Root, Eyebalm

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

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.

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 Information

Research Summary

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 reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources