Goldenseal has the distinction of being one of the most consumed herbs in America.

Goldenseal is classified as a Ranunculaceae or the butterfly family in the nomenclature although its leaves and fruits point to a different family because they are more or less those ones of the Raspberry.

It’s an active ingredient in most of the mucus membrane remedies. Remember the mucus membrane has the sinuses, mouth, intestines, throat, urinary tract and vagina. It’s also used in the treatment of minor wounds, infections of the bladder, fungal infections of the chest blockage, skin, cold, flu and sinus.

Goldenseal herb supplements are usually manufactured with other ingredients like the Gelatin, Magnesium, Stearate and Millet. The administration of this supplement involves a dosage of one or two capsules every single day few times in two week, thereafter you are supposed to take a one or two weeks break before resuming if your physician advises so.

A word of caution though, Goldenseal should never be taken by expectant mothers because its chief constituent, berberine, can cause uterine contraction and increased levels of bilirubin. It should also not be consumed by hypertensive patients unless under the guidance of a physician.

Some of the side effects that have come to be associated with Goldenseal include irritation of the mouth and throat, nervousness and digestive problems.