Goldenseal Root & Pelvic Infection

Goldenseal receives enormous praise from herbalists, but consumers need to be aware that these herbal remedies are not suitable for serious infections. Severe pelvic infection may lead to infertility and requires medical attention. Goldenseal is only suitable to help ease symptoms due to infection.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a general term that describes infection of the uterus lining, fallopian tubes or ovaries. PID occurs when bacteria travels from the vagina or the cervix into the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries or pelvis. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, most cases of PID occur after unprotected sex and contraction of Chlamydia or gonorrhea. Bacteria, however, can enter the body due to a surgical or office procedure such as endometrial biopsy, insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD), miscarriage, childbirth or abortion. Risk factors include multiple sex partners, past history of PID and recent insertion of an IUD.

Goldenseal

• Goldenseal (Hydrastis canademsis) is one of the most popular herbal remedies. It contains two anti-bacterial compounds: berberine and hydrastine. Traditional use includes remedy for skin problems and digestive disorders and wash for sore eyes. According to Jaun Avila, Pharm.D. and Charles Fetrow, Pharm. D., the authors of “The Complete Guide to Herbal Medicine,” there are side effects to take into consideration such as diarrhea, nausea, paralysis (in large doses), low pulse and stomach cramping.

Scientific Evidence

• In the case of goldenseal’s effectiveness, Fetrow and Avila explain that there is no scientific research which confirms goldenseal’s effectiveness.

Treatment

• Since there is no conclusive evidence that shows that goldenseal extract is an effective anti-biotic, it is best to not attempt to self-medicate with herbal remedies and to consult with a doctor. Depending on type of PID, the doctor will prescribe the appropriate medication.

  It is possible to use goldenseal in the form of a douche in order to relieve symptoms such as burning or itching of the vaginal area due to infection or inflammation. According to the University of Maryland, the recipe for a herbal douche includes the following: Mix equal parts of oregano leaf (oreganum vuldane), goldenseal and coneflower (Echinacea Purpura). Steep one heaping tablespoon of herbal mixture in one pint of water. Cool and douche daily for 10 to 14 days. Stop douching if you are in pain or symptoms get worse.

  Encyclopedia of Natural Healing prescribes a female corrective tea formula for those recovering from a pelvic infection. Combine equal parts each of goldenseal root, blessed thistle, cayenne, cramp bark, false unicorn root, ginger, red raspberry leaves, squaw vine and viva ursi. Pour one cup of water and one teaspoon of this mix; steep for five minutes; drink one cup in the morning and in the evening for six days or as long it is required.

Precautions

• There is no thorough information regarding long term use and dosage. Don't use if you have a heart condition or high blood pressure. Fetrow and Avila state that scientists believe that the herb carries a toxicity risk.