Goldenseal is a woody herb native to northeastern North America, though it has been on the endangered plants list since 1991. The plant has a long history of medicinal use among the Native American tribes, such as the Iroquois and Algonquin. The Eclectic physicians, as well as notable contemporary herbalists, value goldenseal as a powerful source of immune and respiratory support, and the herb has received wide attention for use as a bitter and cleansing aide, despite its rarity.* The difficulty of growing goldenseal in cultivation as well as its dwindling wild populations account for its high price tag.

One of the most prevalent myths surrounding goldenseal is that it can mask urine tests for illicit drugs such as those derived from opium and morphine; this is absolutely false. In fact some studies have shown that it can in fact help promote a false positive reading. Goldenseal leaf is an ingredient in some commercial ointments and disinfectants.

Constituents of note: berberine, hydrastine, berberastine, canadine, candaline, and hydrastinine, fatty acids, resin, polyphenolic acids, meconin, chlorogenic acid, phytosterins and a small amount of volatile oil