Antimicrobial, reducing inflammation of the respiratory mucosa, tonic, astringent, liver stimulation, antiparasitic

Tincture, tea or poultice

Goldenseal is a good antimicrobial, inhibiting bacteria, fungi, parasites and protozoans in the mouth, gastrointestinal tract and urinary tract. It can also help treat conjunctivitis.

Goldenseal is an effective anti-inflammatory for treating ulcers and irritations of the mouth, upper respiratory tract, eyes and digestive and urinary tracts.

Goldenseal can also be used as a treatment for tapeworms, giardiasis or E.coli infections.

For infections or ulcerations of the mouth, apply a poultice made from powdered goldenseal root.

For conjunctivitis, make a strong tea from the chopped dry root, then add 12-20 drops of the fluid into 1 ounce of sterile saline solution. Put a few drops in each eye 2-3 times daily.

• Goldenseal should not be used in pregnant animals.
• Do not use goldenseal in animals that are hypoglycemic.
• Goldenseal may cause hypertension.
• Long-term use of goldenseal may overstimulate the liver and trigger excessive bile production, leading to vomiting. This is especially true in cats.
• Goldenseal should not be used internally continuously for more than seven days without a break.

Wulff-Tilford, Mary, and Gregory L. Tilford. All You Ever Wanted to Know About Herbs for Pets. Irvine, CA: BowTie, 1999. Print.

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