Uses for Yellow Root Juice

"Goldenseal has been called 'the poor man's ginseng' because like ginseng it is said to be good for treating just about everything. Also like ginseng, it is goldenseal's root that is used to make herbal medicine," informs Vitaminstuff. The actual "yellow root" of Goldenseal contains berberine, which is an antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal chemical.



The many aliases of yellowroot can actually tell the story of its historical use. Goldenseal, poor man's ginseng, Indian tumeric and eye balm, are but a few of the many names for yellow root. Originating from the Northern Eastern region of the United States, its multi-purposeful use qualified it as a primary staple in Native American medicine. Unfortunately, by 1996 Goldenseal (yellowroot) was declared an "endangered species," as per Vitamstuff.

Uses of Yellowroot

• Berbine, which is found in yellowroot (goldenseal), stimulates the white blood cells, which eradicates bacteria, such as that related to diarrhea, E. coli, salmonella, and Vibrio cholerae (cholera). Yellowroot (in juice, capsule or powder form) also prevents proliferation of Chlamydia trachomatis and other bacteria commonly found in the vagina. Historically known as an "eyebalm," yellowroot has been prescribed by herbalists for the treatment of various eye-infections, including staph and trachoma. Because yellowroot is considered a "white blood cell stimulator," it subsequently strengthens compromised immune systems. It is also used in dentistry, "Goldenseal [yellowroot] tea [or juice] is said to be an effective treatment for canker sores and periodontal disease when used as a mouthwash, because it helps destroy harmful bacteria in the mouth. Goldenseal is also available in an ointment for topical use," posits VS.

  Yellowroot (in any form), is not exclusive to the Western culture. Tumeric (yellowroot) is also a primary staple found in the Eastern hemisphere. India and other eastern countries use yellowroot as a cooking spice for many of its exotic dishes. Aside from its topical/medicinal benefits, yellowroot is flavorful--though somewhat bitter to the palate, according to Indian Marks. Tumeric (yellowroot) is also used in mustards and curry sauces, to prevent "fading" of color. When used as a paste, tumeric is applied to the skin as a softener or a natural hair, clothe dye, as per IM.

Disadvantages of Yellowroot

• According to Evergreen Herbs, yellowroot should not be used during pregnancy, nor for longer than three weeks consecutively; and the plant should not be consumed "fresh." Persons with autoimmune diseases (multiple sclerosis, lupus, other) should refrain from using, as yellowroot stimulates white blood cell activity, which in response, boosts the immune system. Persons suffering from high blood pressure, should also refrain use, as yellowroot can cause nervousness and rapid heart-rate when over-consumed. As with all herbs and natural medicines, consult with a licensed and certified herbologist and/or medical physician before attempting to treat an ailment.

Yellowroot Facts & Bottomline

• The Yellowroot plant has been used in "teas, tinctures, tonics, capsules, powders, eyewashes, gargles, ear drops, douches, and salves," for the treatment of sinus infections, bladder problems, colds, flu, sore throat, laryngitis, mouth sores, colitis, liver disease, gastritis, chest congestion, whooping cough, vaginal infections and earache, according to both Evergreen Herbs and Vitamin Stuff. It may also be used as a cooking spice.