Goldenseal

Goldenseal has a history of being used for colds and other respiratory tract infections. It is not recommended to be used during pregnancy.

Goldenseal Overview

Reviewed: June 19, 2014
Updated: 

Goldenseal is a plant.

Goldenseal is used most often for colds and other respiratory tract infections, infectious diarrhea, eye infections, vaginitis (inflammation or infection of the vagina), and occasionally, cancer.

Goldenseal is also applied to wounds and canker sores and is used as a mouthwash for sore gums, mouth, and throat.

Rare side effects of goldenseal include nausea and vomiting.

Goldenseal Cautionary Labels

precautionsprecautionsprecautions

Goldenseal is used most often for colds and other respiratory tract infections, infectious diarrhea, eye infections, vaginitis (inflammation or infection of the vagina), and occasionally, cancer.

Goldenseal is also applied to wounds and canker sores and is used as a mouthwash for sore gums, mouth, and throat.

Goldenseal may be used for other conditions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Side Effects of Goldenseal

Rare side effects may include nausea and vomiting.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

 

Goldenseal Interactions

No drug interactions have been listed by the manufacturer. However, you should tell your doctor about all the medicines you take including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Not all interactions are known or reported and new drug interactions are continually being reported.

Goldenseal Precautions

Special precautions & warnings:

  • There is little information about the safety of high dosages or the long-term use of goldenseal.
  • Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using goldenseal. Berberine, a chemical in goldenseal, can cause or worsen jaundice in newborns and could lead to a life-threatening problem called kernicterus.
  • Goldenseal should not be given to infants and young children.