"Goldenseal - Can Treat Colds And Help With Indigestion"

Indeed, it has a long history, and was originally used by Native American Indians to treat conditions such as liver disorders, digestive problems, skin conditions, diarrhea, and irritations of the eye.

Additionally, from 1860 to 1926, it was listed in the United States Pharmacopoeia, the government agency that sets standards for over-the-counter and prescription medications.

It has a long-standing reputation of being a beneficial treatment for respiratory problems such as colds, the flu and sinus infections.

In addition, it is a particularly effective treatment for a cold or the flu when combined with the herb Echinacea. (one part Goldenseal mixed with three parts of Echinacea).

Furthermore, It helps to cleanse the mucous membranes of the respiratory system and will help treat infections in that area.

As it is considered a bitter herb, it is used as a digestive aid, helping to resolve several problems of the digestive system.

For example, it is a useful treatment for Dyspepsia, which is pain in the middle and upper parts of the stomach. One of the causes of Dyspepsia is Acid Reflux disease, where stomach acid backs up into the stomach.

In fact, mixing 1/2 teaspoon of Goldenseal extract with three tablespoons of water is a useful remedy for indigestion. This will help to neutralize stomach acid.

Also, when mixed with one part Cayenne and one-fourth part Saleratus, it will help to facilitate the digestive process.

It is believed to exhibit positive effects on the liver.

Interestingly enough, one of the liver's main functions is to help remove toxins from the body. As this herb helps to remove impurities from the blood, it makes the liver's job easier.

Moreover, another function of the liver is, it helps to eliminate excess cholesterol from the body. It does this by increased expression of low-density lipoprotein receptors.

I suppose that sounds like a mouthful, but anything that can increase the expression of these receptors will help the liver reduce cholesterol levels.

Goldenseal does just that.

Basically, research indicates that one of the main chemicals in this herb, berberine, upregulates the expression of these receptors.

Some of you may have heard that this herb may be used to mask a drug habit, when it is taken before a drug test. There is no truth to this claim that it will cleanse the blood or urine of any traces of drugs.

Apparently, this rumor comes from a novel written in 1890 by author John Uri Lloyd called "Stringtown on the Pike."

In this story, a murder mystery, Goldenseal is found in the stomach of a murder victim, but a toxicology expert mistakenly identifies it as strychnine, and thus a legend is born.

• Insomnia - there is some evidence that when taken in small doses, another ingredient in it called canadine has a sedative effect.
• Elevated blood sugar levels - extracts from this herb may lower blood sugar levels.
• Hypertension - it can help to reduce high blood pressure levels.

It is generally safe to take, but probably should not be taken for extended periods.

Plus, pregnant women should avoid it altogether, as it may stimulate uterine contractions.

Likewise, it should not be taken by those individuals with high blood pressure or heart conditions.

Ground raspberry, Orange root, Puccoon, Wild curcuma, Yellow root

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