GOLDENSEAL FOR MEDICINE

The most active ingredient, and the one that accounts for any chemical effectiveness, is hydras tine. It does exert a minor influence on circulation and on muscle tone and contraction in the uterus and in other smooth muscle areas. However, as a promoter of uterine contractions and for use to reduce uterine bleeding, it is less effective than ergot, a fungus with pharmacological properties. Hydras tine has a mild antiseptic effect. As for golden seal's effect on the nervous system, the evidence is that in small doses a second ingredient, Canadian, is a mild sedative and muscle relaxant, but it is not very useful. A golden seal eyewash has been show scientifically to be mildly antibiotic, especially against Staphylococcus aureus; the eyewash is also astringent and can reduce inflammation. Golden seal extracts seem to lower blood sugar levels, which may make them useful for treating stress and anxiety.