Goldenseal

Generic name: goldenseal [ GOAL-den-seal ]
Drug class: Herbal products

What is goldenseal?

Goldenseal is an herb also known as Eye Balm, Eye Root, Fard Inolien, Framboise de Terre, Goldenroot, Goldsiegel, Ground Raspberry, Hydraste, Hydrastis canadensis, Indian Dye, Indian Plant, Indian Tumeric, Jaundice Root, Orange Root, Racine Orange, Sceau D'Or, Sello de Oro, Turmeric Root, Warnera, Wild Curcuma, Yellow Indian Paint, Yellow Puccoon, Yellow Root, and other names.

Goldenseal has been used in alternative medicine as an aid in treating urinary tract infections, hemorrhoids, upset stomach, colitis, hay fever, stuffy nose, irregular menstrual periods, chronic fatigue syndrome, and other conditions. However, these uses have not been proven with research.

It is not certain whether goldenseal is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Goldenseal should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Goldenseal is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Goldenseal may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

Important Information

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

Before using goldenseal, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use goldenseal if you have certain medical conditions.

Goldenseal is considered likely unsafe to use during pregnancy. It is not known whether goldenseal will harm an unborn baby, but newborn babies exposed to goldenseal have developed brain damage. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant.

Goldenseal is considered likely unsafe to use if you are nursing a baby.

Goldenseal should not be given to a newborn baby because it may cause brain damage. Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

How should I take goldenseal?

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use goldenseal, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Do not use different forms (extracts, tincture, teas, etc) of goldenseal at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with goldenseal does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra goldenseal to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking goldenseal?

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Goldenseal side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, goldenseal is thought to be possibly safe when taken as a single dose.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

What other drugs will affect goldenseal?

Do not take goldenseal without medical advice if you are using a medication to treat any of the following conditions:

• any type of infection (including HIV, malaria, or tuberculosis);

• anxiety or depression;

• asthma or allergies;

• cancer;

• erectile dysfunction;

• heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD);

• high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a heart condition;

• migraine headaches;

• organ transplant rejection;

• psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders;

• a psychiatric disorder; or

• seizures.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with goldenseal, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Further information

• Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2025 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 5.01.