GOLDEN SEAL

(Hydrastis canadensis)

Part used:  Dried rhizome and roots.

Therapeutic action:

Tonic, laxative, alterative (mucous membranes), detergent, ophthalmic, antiperiodic, aperient, diuretic, antiseptic, deobstruent (glandular system), cholagogue, antiemetic, nervine, hemostatic (uterine).

This is a powerful tonic for disorders assimilation; it effectively tones the debilitated mucous membranes and any other tissues it contacts, increases and improves the appetite, gastric secretions and flow of bile, and aids in digestion. In some cases, it is laxative, but without astringency. It is particularly effective as a uterine hemostatic, and it is one of the very few agents that will tone and sustain venous circulation. Its therapeutic action ranks somewhere between Turkey rhubarb and bloodroot. The root was so-named by the Thomsonians, who employed it extensively during the early part of the nineteenth century in the United States.

Medicinal uses:

Chronic alcoholism, acute alimentary inflammation, biliousness, bladder problems, bronchitis, cancer, canker sores, catarrhs in alimentary and excretory channels, catarrh of mucous membranes, chronic dyspepsia, colds, chronic constipation (from sluggish liver and intestinal secretions), cystitis, general debility, digestive disorders, dysmenorrhea, eczema, erysipelas, external cleansing agent, eye affections, intermittent fevers, fistulas, flu, gastric disorders (irritability ulceration), glandular inflammation, gonorrhea, hemorrhage (including slight bleeding in the pelvic tissues), hemorrhoids (internal and external), jaundice, leucorrhea, liver troubles, lotion, malaria, menorrhagia, nasal catarrh, nausea in pregnancy (small doses), cracked and abraded nipples, pharyngitis, pyorrhea, rectal fissures and prolapse, ringworm, scarlet fever, secretion deficiencies, skin diseases, open sores, spinal meningitis, stomach troubles, syphilitic sores, enlarged tonsils (tonsillitis), typhoid fever, ulcers, uterine ulceration and erosion, vaginal douche.

This herb is considered to be one of the best general medicinal aids in the entire herbal kingdom.

Preparation:

Decoction, elixir, fluid extract, infusion, powder, solid extract, tincture, douche. (Note: The price of this root has been unusually high--but do not attempt to use other aids here that will not achieve the same results. Always use the herbal agents you need, no matter what the price! Do not purchase or use the commercial colorless fluid extract, however, as it does not contain the needed therapeutic values of the herb.)

Dosage:

Generally give small and frequent doses.