What is Goldenseal?
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a perennial herbaceous plant in the buttercup family. It is native to the eastern part of North America and Canada. It is also known as eye balm, eyebright, and yellow root. The root of the plant is used in herbal medicine. The root is dark brown to black, is thick and fleshy, and has a pungent odor. The root is usually dried or roasted before being used as medicine. It is believed to treat many common conditions, such as cold symptoms, skin conditions, eye infections, and stomach problems.
The first recorded use of goldenseal was by the Cherokee Indians, who used it as an eyewash. The Delaware and Iroquois tribes used goldenseal for eye infections and digestive issues. In the early 1800s, goldenseal was introduced to European settlers who used it for similar purposes.
The Health Benefits of Goldenseal
Goldenseal contains berberine, an alkaloid that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties make goldenseal effective in treating various infections, including respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and skin infections. Goldenseal also stimulates the immune system.
Some scientific evidence supports the use of goldenseal for specific conditions. For example, studies have shown that goldenseal can help treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis and can also be effective in fighting bacterial and fungal infections. Goldenseal is also sometimes used as a natural remedy for colds and flu, although there is no concrete evidence that it is effective.
Potentail benefits of goldenseal include:
Acne treatment - Goldenseal is thought to help slow or stop the growth of bacteria that causes acne. It may also help reduce the inflammation that often accompanies acne breakouts.
Eye infections - Goldenseal has been used to treat eye infections, including conjunctivitis, pink eye, and bacterial eye infections.
Skin problems - Goldenseal has been used to treat skin problems, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
Jaundice - Goldenseal has been used as a treatment for jaundice, a condition that causes yellow discoloration of the skin due to high amounts of bilirubin.
Elderberry Health Benefits
Elderberry is a plant and a popular supplement known for helping to combat symptoms of the common cold and flu. Elderberry contains antioxidants which many believe are foundational for fighting off free radical damage and strengthening the immune system.
Researchers have found elderberries can decrease the length and severity of symptoms related to the common cold and flu, and there is no evidence it will overwhelm your immune system.
A study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that elderberry can help decrease symptoms of upper airways during colds. Taking elderberry early on when symptoms arise could potentially help alleviate the severity of common cold and flu symptoms, says scientists.
Because elderberries are high in three types of flavanols--natural compounds found in plants with antioxidant properties--they may help boost heart health and improve immune health.
Native American and European herbalists have used elderberries for several supposed health benefits.
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that is essential for human health. It is found in every body cell and is critical in many biochemical processes. Zinc is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats and is also required for synthesizing DNA and RNA. It is needed for the proper function of over 300 enzymes and plays a role in immune function, wound healing, and fertility.
Zinc is found in various foods, including meat, poultry, seafood, nuts, and seeds. People at risk for zinc deficiency may need to take supplements or eat foods fortified with zinc.
What are the health benefits of zinc?
There are many different health benefits of zinc, including:
- Boosting the immune system
- Protecting against cell damage
- Wound healing
- Reducing inflammation
- Warding off colds and other infections
What foods contain zinc?
- Oysters: One of the best sources of zinc, oysters contain almost 10 mg of the mineral per serving. They're also a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Beef: A 3-ounce serving of cooked beef provides around 3 mg of zinc. Beef is also a good protein, iron, and B vitamins source.
- Chicken: A 3-ounce serving of cooked chicken provides around 1 mg of zinc. Chicken is also a good source of protein and B vitamins.
- Nuts: A variety of nuts contain zinc, including almonds, cashews, and peanuts.
How much zinc do you need?
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for zinc is 8 milligrams (mg) per day for women and 11 mg per day for men. Pregnant women should aim for 11 mg of zinc per day, and lactating women should aim for 12 mg per day. However, it's important to note that the RDA is the minimum amount of zinc you need to maintain good health. Many people may need more than the RDA to prevent or treat zinc deficiency.
