Goldenseal extract is made from the roots of the plant Hydrastis canadensis which grows naturally in North America. The plant’s medicinal use began as a healing herb by Native Americans for digestive problems, skin problems, and as a cold remedy. Goldenseal root extract contains the alkaloid “berberine” which is a compound that is proven effective as an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-parastic, and possibly anti-cancer agent in numerous studies. It also may have properties to help mobilize white blood cells to fight infection. Goldenseal is usually taken at the first sign of a cold or flu and is one of the most widely sold herbal supplements in the U.S.

Active Compound in Goldenseal

The active ingredient in goldenseal extract is Berberine. This compound has been studied thoroughly, mainly to observe its effects on the immune system. It has been shown to fight the fungus “candida albicans”, certain bacteria, viral infections, and even has anti-cancer properties. It is usually taken in pill form, liquid drops, prepared as a tincture, or made into tea. Sometimes the root extract it is used in combination with the herb echinacea for cold relief.

Anti-Cancer effects

Berberine (the active alkoloid in goldenseal extract) has recently been tested in clinical studies for its possible anti-cancer effects. In one study, it was found to be effective at inhibiting the proliferation of certain kinds of breast cancer cells. It was stated that “[berberine] induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells (MCF-7) through mitochondrial-dependent pathway”. Another study showed that the goldenseal alkoloid was had an effect comparable to the breast cancer drug Doxorubicine at inhibiting the growth of certain cancerous cell lines. Berberine was also found to inhibit inflammation through its effect on NF-kappaB signaling pathway.

Effects on Cold or Flu

Goldenseal extract is one of the most popular supplements in the United States for treating the common cold. There are many studies showing the antiviral effects of goldenseal’s compound berberine, but there hasn’t been much study in its use to treat colds in human subjects. Goldenseal extract has been found to be an immunostimulant and “reduces production of TNF-alpha, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, and IL-12″. Scientists believe that this would directly effect activity of macrophages and may increase their ability to fight infections.

Masking of Illicit Drugs in Urine

In recent years, Goldenseal has been taken taken due to the belief that it might facilitate a false negative response to drug urine test. This belief is most likely false. A couple studies that have shown it does not have the effect of mask these type of tests. This myth was believed to have originated from a book entitled “Stringtown on the Pike”.

Side Effects

Goldenseal has been used by humans for 100’s of years and is generally considered very safe, but you should always notify your doctor if you plan on using a supplement to treat an illness. Some effects that Goldenseal might cause: are mild nausea or rash. Like most herbal supplements, it should be avoided by pregnant women. It also may have some interactions with anticoagulant or blood sugar reducing drugs.