Let's set the record straight; we're not talking about goldenseal (hydrastis canadensis), we are talking about Xanthorhiza Simplicissima.
Our yellow root is distinguished by the yellow meat underneath the bark of the plant. We harvest our plants along the shores of cool running mountain streams in Northern Georgia and Western North Carolina. Yellow Root, xanthorhiza simplicissima, is of the same family as buttercups (ranunculaceae).
From what we know and have read, yellow root has been used for centuries by many civilizations and ethnicities including Indian tribes. The most common uses are to
- aid in the relief of ulcers,
- GURD,
- acid reflux
- and other anomalies of the esophagus,
- and sore throats.
Folk lore has yellow root being used for the treatment of
- hypertension,
- diabetes,
- sore throats,
- infections in the mouth,
- as antibiotics,
- anticonvulsants,
- sedatives,
- cholera
- and uterine problems.
Berberine containing plants have been used in China as well as India for thousands of years to treat diarrhea. A broad spectrum of antimicrobial action has been found for berberine, including activity against bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Yellow Root extracts were found to exhibit antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans , Cryptococcus neoformans , and Mycobacterium intracellularae. Extract of yellow root has also been shown to inhibit RNA and DNA synthesis in leukemia cells.
There is no research to support the use of yellow root to treat any condition.
Some potential concerns include its
- anticoagulation (blood thinning) interactions,
- cardiostimulation
- and uterine stimulation.
There are no reported contraindications that yellow root should not be taken with other medications.However, as always consult you physicianbefore trying any new supplements or herbs.
Because berberine can stimulate uterine sensitivity, use of yellow root during pregnancy should be avoided.