Found in deep woods of eastern North America, goldenseal is an unusual looking plant with hairy stems, wrinkled leaves, and a small, petal-less white flower that swells into a tempting, yet inedible, bright red raspberry-like fruit. The plant’s fleshy horizontal rhizomes are anchored by fibrous rootlets, both a rich golden yellow color. Great care is taken with sustainable wildcrafting to preserve the native goldenseal population.

Native American tribes used goldenseal as a beautiful yellow dye, as well as medicinally, and introduced the herb to European settlers. The most significant alkaloid in goldenseal, berberine, is both antibacterial and anti-fungal and has been used to treat digestive tract infections as well as topical and oral infections. Some herbalists also recommend goldenseal for colds and other upper respiratory tract infections.

Goldenseal herb is crafted from the aerial parts of the plant (stems and leaves) and contains lower levels of alkaloids than goldenseal root. The herb is less bitter and often preferred for teas and infusions. Dried goldenseal herb may also be used for topical ointments and salves.