Evidence supporting the use of: Goldenseal
For the health condition: Infection (viral)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) has a long history of traditional use by Native American tribes and early American herbalists as a remedy for various infections, including those believed to be caused by viruses. The use of goldenseal for infection is mainly based on its content of alkaloids such as berberine, hydrastine, and canadine, which exhibit antimicrobial properties in laboratory studies. However, most of the evidence supporting goldenseal’s use is anecdotal or based on traditional herbal practices rather than rigorous scientific research.

While berberine, a major active compound in goldenseal, has demonstrated antiviral activity in in vitro (test tube) studies against certain viruses, there is a lack of well-designed clinical trials in humans to support goldenseal’s efficacy for treating viral infections. The traditional use has often blurred the lines between bacterial, viral, and other types of infections, as microbial causes were not well understood historically. As such, its recommendation for viral infections persists more from tradition than from scientific validation. The quality and quantity of available evidence are insufficient to substantiate goldenseal as an effective treatment for viral infections, and its use should be approached with caution. Healthcare providers generally do not recommend goldenseal for viral infections due to the absence of reliable clinical data and potential safety concerns with long-term use.

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