Description :
Goldenseal has been on the endangered species list in the United States since 1991. Goldenseal is an herbaceous perennial, native to Eastern North America from Georgia to Quebec. Goldenseal likes to grow to about 14 inches tall in rich, densely shaded, deciduous forests. Buds develop on the root-stock and new plants emerge from these buds in the spring. The mature plant has two or more erect, hairy stems, that usually have one fork at the top with leaves on each fork. The dark-green leaf has several nodes. The margins of the leaves are double-serrated. Leaves grow to between 3 and 12 inches in diameter and between 3 and 8 inches in length. Between April and May, a single greenish-white flower blooms. From that, a single green fruit develops, that turns red in July. The fruit contains as many as 30 black seeds. The seeds, which must always remain moist, can take up to three years to germinate. Taken as tea or tincture internally, Goldenseal was used by Native Americans as a liver tonic and to help fight infection. They also believed Goldenseal can help fight infection when applied topically.
History and Folklore:
Many Native American tribes in the Eastern United States have used Goldenseal for a long time. Native Americans shared the medicinal uses of Goldenseal with European settlers. Historical uses were as a tonic and wash for local inflammation, as a way to increase appetite, and for other inflammatory digestive issues.
Cultivation and Harvest:
Harvest the roots and rhizomes in the fall. Leaves can be harvested any time after flowering. Goldenseal is an endangered species, so please do not wild-craft this plant. Try Growing it from home!
Precautions:
Do not take if pregnant or nursing.
Traditional Herbal Actions:
Antibacterial, Aperient, Bitter, Cholagogue
Other Names:
ground raspberry, orange root, jaundice root or even eye balm
Ingredients: Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
*This statement has not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.
Hudson –
Melvin (verified owner) –
I never made a goldenseal tincture. But in a systemic disaster this type of tincture is priceless. And can cause one living through a disaster to because Doc. I will be the one bring medical aid into a FEAM camps and not the on living in one due to the Home Grown Herbalist School!!!