Golden Seal: Natural Antibiotic
Golden Seal: Natural Antibiotic
Golden Seal is an herb rich in calcium, iron, manganese, Vitamin A, C, E,
and B complex. It has antibiotic, soothing, and astringent properties.
Golden Seal soothes irritated mucus membranes aiding the eyes, ears,
nose, and throat. It is preventive when taken at the first sign of
respiratory problems, colds, or flu. It is used to reduce fevers, relive
congestion, and expectorate mucous.
Golden Seal cleanses and promotes healthy glandular functions by
increasing bile flow and digestive enzymes. It also eases inflamed peptic
ulcers, aids digestion, and relieves constipation.
In capsulated form and for therapeutic purposes, two Golden Seal
capsules twice daily with meals is the accepted dosage. When taken as
tea, 1/2 to 1 teaspoon powdered root per cup, steeped 10 minutes for up
to 2 cups per day is ideal. It should not be used for extended periods, by
hypoglycemia sufferers, or by pregnant women. For many years, the
alkaloids and the powdered root were the chief forms used, but
nowadays the fluid extract is in vogue.
The generic name of the Golden Seal herb is Hydrastis, derived from two
Greek words, signifying “water” and “to accomplish”. It belongs to the
Buttercup family, though its leaves and fruit somewhat resemble those of
the Raspberry family.
Golden Seal was first introduced into England in 1760, and later was
grown in Ireland. In 1905, the United States Department of Agriculture
acknowledged the increasing demand for Golden Seal for medicinal
purposes. But the American Indians have been using it for centuries as
a medicine!