How to Use & Prepare Goldenseal Root

Goldenseal root has many natural uses, and the herb can be used for treating a variety of skin-related conditions, menstrual complications, digestive issues and for the treatment and prevention of skin and eye infections. There are specific methods that should be followed when using goldenseal root in order to gain the benefits from the herb. Adhering to the methods of use helps to ensure that there aren't any unwanted or lasting side effects.

Things You'll Need

• Materials:
• 1 -- Bottle 500 mg to 2,000 mg goldenseal root capsules
• 1 -- Bottle 500 mg to 2,000 mg goldenseal root tablets (optional)
• 1 -- Goldenseal root 30 mg to 120 mg standardized liquid extract
• 1 -- 4-oz. bottle of goldenseal root powder
• 1 -- Cheesecloth
• 1 -- Small disposable plastic medicine cup
• 1 -- Eyedropper
• 1 -- Washcloth
• 1 -- Container of table salt
• 1 -- Hot water bottle
• 1 -- Fountain syringe
• 1 -- Bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups

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Instructions

The Process

• 1

  Take 500 mg of goldenseal root tablets or capsules three times a day with a glass of water for cold and fever defense and for an immune system boost. Use this method for treating ear infections, too. Cease using the product after one week.

• 2

  Mix 1 tbsp. of olive oil with 2 to 3 drops of goldenseal root standardized extract in a disposable medicine cup. Tilt your head to the side and use the eyedropper to place 2 to 3 drops of the mixture in the ear to treat an ear infection. Keep your head tilted for two minutes to allow the mixture to sit inside the ear. Use a washcloth and warm water to wipe away the excess drainage from the ear.

• 3

  Use 2 droppers full of goldenseal root extract on a washcloth to gently apply the herb to skin areas affected by acne, cuts, boils, scrapes and skin irritations to promote wound healing. Repeat the process three times a day until the wound has healed.

• 4

  Mix 1/2 tsp. of goldenseal root powder, 1 cup of warm water and 1/4 tsp. of table salt to create a mouth rinse for dealing with painful gums, gingivitis and canker sores. Use the rinse once a day and cease using the rinse after the passage of a week. Use this same mixture for throat pain by gargling with it once a day.

• 5

  Mix 1/2 tsp. of goldenseal root, 1 cup of warm water and 1/4 tsp. of salt. Allow two or three minutes for the materials to settle; strain the liquid over a bowl while using a cheesecloth to collect any debris. Put the mixture into a hot water bottle and attach the fountain syringe. Use as a vaginal douche to manage vaginal itchiness and irritation. Cease use after three days.

• 6

  Mix 1/4 tsp. of salt, 1/2 cup of goldenseal root and 1 cup of water. Strain the mixture over a bowl with a cheesecloth. Apply to a washcloth and place over an eye that is infected or use the mixture as an eye rinse. Get rid of the mixture when it grows cloudy in consistency.