Golden Seal

(Hydrastis canadensis)

Indicated for:
Any infection,internal or external. First choice for coughs and sore throats. This is nature's antibiotic. Used as a mouthwash, digestive aid, topical preparation for skin and eye, vaginal, and nasal irritation, ulcers, and cancer. Works well with echinacea and myrrh.

Why it works:
Contains berberine, which kills many microorganisms including those responsible for Strep Throat and Yeast Infections.

How to use it:
Golden Seal should always be used dried, or it can burn. This is not a problem as almost all Golden Seal purchased is cultivated these days. It used to grow wild in the old North American Forests but is quite hard to find now (you may be lucky if you live in the Appalachians).

Infusion or Decoction:
Infuse the roots to make a decoction. 1 tsp chopped herb to 2 cups of hot water.

Capsules:
1 500mg capsule, 3 times daily.

Extract:
10 drops 3 times daily in water.

Culinary uses:
As a colouring and flavouring in curries etc. Turmeric.

Growing notes:
Perennial, likes shade.

Safety:
A strong powerful herb this should be used carefully and never during pregnancy, or by anyone with high blood pressure.

Storage:
Stores well dried.

History:
Used by Native Americans and in other countries.