Goldenseal (Canadian Goldenseal)

Curious about the power of Goldenseal? Canadian goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries. The root in particular contains many potent compounds. Find out more about Canadian goldenseal on this page!

By Stefan, last updated: 12-06-2025.

Contents

• Our favourite Goldenseal supplements
• What is Goldenseal?
• Historical uses of Goldenseal
• Compounds in Goldenseal
• Interactions and contraindications
• Taking Goldenseal
• Sources

Our favourite Goldenseal supplements

• Goldenseal Root (Geelwortel) by Nature’s Answer
• Goldenseal 10:1 by Vimergy
• Echinacea Goldenseal by Gaia Herbs

What is Goldenseal?

Goldenseal, also known as Canadian goldenseal, is a perennial plant native to North America. Its botanical name is Hydrastis canadensis. It belongs to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) and grows mainly in shady woodlands in the eastern United States and Canada.

The plant grows to around 30 centimetres tall and can be recognised by its lobed leaves and distinctive yellow rhizome. It is this root that is most commonly used, both traditionally and in modern supplements. Goldenseal has long been known for its strong, bitter taste and is now mainly used as an extract, powder or in capsules.

Historical uses of Goldenseal

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) has a long history of use among Indigenous peoples in North America. The root of the plant was traditionally used for a variety of purposes within their cultures. These included rituals (source), use as a natural dye for clothing and body decoration, and keeping unwanted insects away. In times of scarcity, the root was also used as a food source. (source) 

The roots are generally only harvested when the plant is three to four years old, contributing to a careful and sustainable harvesting process.

Compounds in Goldenseal

The power of Goldenseal lies in its bitter alkaloids. The main ones are:

• Berberine: the most commonly mentioned compound in Goldenseal, and the subject of extensive research for many years.
• Hydrastine: contributes to the yellow colour of the root and has been studied since the 19th century.
• Canadine: less well known, but often mentioned as one of the accompanying alkaloids in the plant.

Goldenseal also contains tannins, resins and traces of essential oils. The exact composition depends on the plant, its origin and how it is processed. (source)

Interactions and contraindications

We always want to keep our customers as well informed as possible, so it is important to mention that, despite its wide-ranging health benefits, Goldenseal is not suitable for everyone. Canadian goldenseal appears to be able to promote uterine contractions, so we advise against using Goldenseal during pregnancy. It is also not recommended to take Canadian goldenseal for more than three consecutive months, as prolonged use can reduce the absorption of other nutrients, such as B vitamins. (source)

Taking Goldenseal

Goldenseal root has an extremely bitter taste. For this reason, people often choose to take Goldenseal in extract form. Our range includes liquid extracts, although these are still rather bitter. Some producers therefore choose to add a natural flavouring, such as lemon juice.

Sources

• Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis): Is There Enough Scientific Evidence to Support Safety and Efficacy?
• Redox regulation in health and disease: Therapeutic potential of berberine
• Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis L.) and its active constituents: A critical review of their efficacy and toxicological issues
• Natural Methods for Prevention