Facts about Goldenseal
- London Global Health Connections
- Mar 31, 2019
- 1 min read
GOLDENSEAL: THE PLANT
A perennial herb with yellow knotted roots
Goldenseal has a four year growth period
Roots and rhizomes contain bioactive compounds
Traditionally used in Native American medicine
Goldenseal
Hydrastis Canadensis
Popular since the mid-1800’s
Cultivated in Eastern North America
Continued use of goldenseal today
Considered an endangered plant
Hydrastis Canadensis
Wild goldenseal is found in eastern North America, from southeastern Canada, Vermont, and Minnesota in the north to Georgia and Arkansas in the south. Due to overharvesting, Goldenseal is considered an endangered species.
Today, about 250,000 pounds of primarily wild rootstock are sold each year and more than 60 million goldenseal plants are picked each year without being replaced.
Bioactive Compounds- isoquinoline alkaloids (roots):
Hydrastine
Berberine
Canadine
