Powerful Health Benefits of Echinacea Goldenseal Herbal Remedies

The Powerful Health Benefits of Echinacea and Goldenseal

Two of the most popular herbal remedies used today are echinacea and goldenseal. These medicinal plants pack a powerful punch when it comes to boosting immunity, fighting infections, and promoting overall wellness. In this comprehensive guide, learn all about the many health benefits of these natural wonder herbs.

What is Echinacea?

Echinacea refers to a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family. There are nine known species of echinacea, all native to eastern and central North America. The most common species used for medicinal purposes are Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower), Echinacea angustifolia (narrow-leaved purple coneflower), and Echinacea pallida (pale purple coneflower). These hardy perennial plants produce vibrant flowers and have been prized for their healing properties for centuries.

The Many Medicinal Uses of Echinacea

Echinacea has a rich history of being used medicinally by Native Americans. Indigenous tribes used various parts of the echinacea plant to treat wounds, infections, snake bites, and other ailments. The plains Indians of North America are believed to have been the first to discover echinaceas healing abilities. They drank echinacea tea and used it externally as a remedy for various illnesses.

Today, echinacea remains a highly popular herbal supplement used to:

• Boost the immune system
• Prevent and treat upper respiratory infections
• Fight inflammation
• Combat flu and cold symptoms
• Heal skin wounds and irritation

Modern research has confirmed many of echinaceas traditionally-held benefits. Studies indicate that echinacea can strengthen the immune response and help the body fight viruses and infections more effectively. Its immune-boosting powers likely come from the high concentration of polysaccharides, glycol-proteins, and other active compounds found in the plant.

Echinacea Goldenseal Combination Therapy

Echinacea is very often used together with another popular herbal remedy called goldenseal. This winning combination pairs two potent immune-enhancing plants to pack an even bigger medicinal punch. But what is goldenseal and what does it do?

Introducing Goldenseal

Goldenseal refers to a North American perennial herb named for its golden-yellow colored rhizomes (underground stems). Hydrastis canadensis is the scientific name for goldenseal, also sometimes called orange root, yellow root, or yellow puccoon.

Just like echinacea, goldenseal also has a lengthy history of use among Native Americans. Cherokee healers valued goldenseal highly as a remedy for digestive issues, sore throats, eye irritations, and cancerous tumors. The Iroquois boiled the rhizomes into a tea to treat whooping cough, liver disorders, fever, and other problems.

Today goldenseal remains popularly taken to:

• Boost immunity
• Fight respiratory infections
• Combat allergies and sinus troubles
• Reduce inflammation
• Aid digestion
• Heal mouth sores and gum disease

Science indicates that goldenseal can be an effective antimicrobial and immunostimulant, largely thanks to key active compounds called berberine, hydrastine, and canadine. These phytochemicals give goldenseal the ability to combat bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses when taken internally.

Why Use Echinacea and Goldenseal Together?

Echinacea and goldenseal make perfect partners when it comes to enhancing immunity. Each herb works in its own way to activate the bodys defense systems against illness and infection:

• Echinaceas polysaccharides spur the production of macrophages, neutrophils, cytokines, and other immune cells.
• Goldenseals berberine, hydrastine, and canadine act as antimicrobial agents to directly inhibit unwanted microorganisms.

Together, they deliver a formidable one-two punch to spark immune activity AND directly fight pathogens at the same time. This makes the echinacea/goldenseal combo especially helpful for warding off colds, flu, respiratory troubles, and wound infections before they have a chance to take hold.

The Best Ways to Take Echinacea Goldenseal

Echinacea and goldenseal supplements come in several forms for convenience and flexibility:

• Dried Herb Capsules or Tablets: The most popular option, easy to swallow with a glass of water.
• Liquid Extracts or Tinctures: Dropped directly under the tongue for fast absorption.
• Teas: Made by steeping dried herb leaves and flowers in hot water for 5+ minutes.
• Powders: Can be mixed into water, juice, smoothies, etc.
• Ointments: For topical use to treat skin irritations and wounds.

Capsules provide accurate doses and are highly convenient. Drops get to work quickly but dosing can be trickier. Teas and powders allow you to harness the full spectrum of active compounds. Ointments enable direct, localized relief.

Whats the Best Echinacea Goldenseal Dosage?

When using echinacea and goldenseal, it's best to start with lower doses and work up from there. Although quite safe, both herbs can cause side effects like nausea or rashes if too much is taken too quickly.

General dosing guidelines for adults are:

• Echinacea: 500-700 mg capsules, 2-3 times per day; or 2-4 mL tincture, 2-3 times per day
• Goldenseal: 500-700 mg capsules, 2 times per day; or 2 mL tincture, 2 times per day

For maximum immune effects, take echinacea and goldenseal together consistently for a few weeks. Then cycle off for a week or two before resuming treatment. Its also wise to check with your doctor before beginning any new herbal regimens, especially if pregnant or taking medication.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Precautions

When used properly, echinacea and goldenseal are very safe for most people. However, there are some potential side effects and cautions to be aware of when using these or any herbal remedies:

• Allergic Reactions: Allergies to plants in the daisy family are possible with echinacea. Discontinue use if a rash develops.
• Digestive Upset: Stomach pain or diarrhea can sometimes occur. Reduce dosage if problems arise.
• Pregnancy Concerns: Safe use during pregnancy is uncertain. Exercise caution or avoid use.
• Autoimmune Risks: Those with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis should use goldenseal cautiously as it may exacerbate symptoms.

Additionally, speak with your doctor if taking any prescription medications before using echinacea/goldenseal supplements. Potential herb-drug interactions are possible.

Otherwise, rest assured that centuries of traditional use and decades of modern research demonstrate echinacea and goldenseal as highly beneficial and largely safe herbal therapies.

The Bottom Line on Echinacea Goldenseal

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.