With people now traveling all over the world, we find our immune systems constantly being challenged by various bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These pathogens can enter the body through simple cuts, contact with an infected person, through contaminated food or water, or simply by touching a contaminated surface. A strong immune system is your best defense against these pathogens, however, even a healthy person can need some extra support if they get sick. That’s where knowing how to utilize herbs as medicine is important.  

Goldenseal root is one of those treasured herbal medicines. Dr. Christopher considered Goldenseal “to be one of the best general medicinal aids in the entire herbal kingdom.”1 Goldenseal is naturally rich in the alkaloid compounds, berberine and hydrastine, which are what make it antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory.

Goldenseal is very popular around the world and is known as Hydrastis canadensis. It works best in the body where mucus conditions exist, like in the throat, nasal passages, bronchial tubes, intestines, stomach, bladder, etc., because the berberine kills and neutralizes many poisons.2 

Dr. Christopher used Goldenseal in at least a dozen of his formulas, but only in small amounts where it works synergistically with other herbs. According to Dr. Christopher, “Goldenseal is a very powerful tonic herb and one should only use what he needs and stop when he has accomplished what he wished.”3

One of my favorite Dr. Christopher products, is his X-INFX formula for general infection. It not only includes Goldenseal, but Black Walnut (a great anti-fungal), Bugleweed, Plantain, Marshmallow Root, and Lobelia that help target, kill, soothe, and draw the infection out.

Goldenseal is so popular worldwide and can be expensive, so be cautious of other commercial preparations that may be watered down and not be strong enough to be effective.

References

1. Christopher, David. and Gileadi, Cathy.  Herb Syllabus. Springville, Utah. Christopher Publications, 2010, page 254.

2. Kloss, Jethro.  Back to Eden.  Twin Lakes, Wisconsin. Lotus Press, 1939, page 134.

3. Christopher, David. and Gileadi, Cathy.  Herb Syllabus. Springville, Utah. Christopher Publications, 2010, page 252.