Goldenseal belongs to the buttercup family, and you can find this North American perennial shrub from Ontario in Canada to South Carolina. Goldenseal was once a widespread shrub in the North-Eastern regions of the country, with thick groves once found in the Ohio Valley.
Unfortunately, rampant over-harvesting of these indigenous plants by the health industry supplement manufacturers led to its listing as critically endangered in 27 States. The plant grows up to 12-inches tall, with a hairy stem, broad leaves, and greenish-white flowers.
The goldenseal blooms in early spring, producing clusters of red berries. Since its listing on the endangered species list in 1997, the herbal industry now propagates the plant in commercial operations. The industry highly regulates the production and sale of the rhizomes, roots, roots stocks, and bulk goldenseal powder.
The root of the plant is what gives goldenseal its medicinal value. There are various ways to prepare goldenseal for use in traditional medicine, and plenty of applications.
1. Good for Gut Health
People who experience digestive issues should consider taking goldenseal to relieve symptoms of bloating, gas, and discomfort. Goldenseal tea makes an excellent digestive aid when consumed with meals, and it helps your gut biomes digest your food.
Gut microbiomes exist in the intestines, where they break down the nutrition in your food. When the biomes exist in an inflamed state due to gastrointestinal distress, they operate inefficiently. Recent research into the effects of the gut biome on our health shows that they have a tremendous impact on our general well-being.
People who are dealing with gastrointestinal infections may use goldenseal tea to help relieve symptoms of constipation, bloating, and cramps. The anti-inflammatory properties of goldenseal help reduce the symptoms of discomfort associated with digestive disorders like leaky gut, irritable bowel disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Drinking goldenseal tea helps to keep your bowels regular, optimizing the health of your digestive system.