It is frequently recommended for ulcers in the upper intestine and especially advocated for respiratory infections, she says. It has the ability to stimulate your immune system and slow down the rate at which bacteria invade your cells and tissues. If used early, goldenseal is effective against nearly any kind of infection, from a sore throat to a cut on the hand, says Dr. Brett. Its antibacterial and antiseptic properties can help fight off bacteria. If the infection has really set in, though, you may need more help than goldenseal can give you.
Goldenseal can make the symptoms of an infection less bothersome.
It s especially effective in reducing phlegm and drying up secretions from inflamed mucous membranes, the tissues that make up the inner lining of the body, explains Dr. Brett. When you have an irritated sinus or a sore throat from postnasal drip, the herb can bring great relief, Dr. Brett says. It works best when you can get the goldenseal right on the infection. I tell people to gargle with a tea of goldenseal when they have a sore throat. In olden days, people generally put goldenseal root into water and brewed a tea, but it was a bitter tonic to swallow.