Evidence supporting the use of: Goldenseal
For the health condition: Carbuncles

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, especially among Native American tribes and later in Western herbalism. For carbuncles, which are clusters of boils resulting from bacterial infection, goldenseal was often applied topically or taken internally due to its reputed antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally, goldenseal root preparations (such as poultices, teas, or tinctures) were used to "cleanse the blood" and support skin healing for various infections, including carbuncles. The main active compound, berberine, is known to have in vitro antibacterial effects, which may have contributed to its traditional use for skin infections.

However, while laboratory studies demonstrate that berberine and other constituents of goldenseal possess antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria, there is a lack of high-quality clinical trials specifically investigating goldenseal for carbuncles or similar skin infections in humans. Most of the evidence remains anecdotal or is based on traditional knowledge rather than scientific validation. Thus, the overall evidence rating is low (2 out of 5). Goldenseal continues to be marketed by herbalists for skin health, but its use for carbuncles should be approached with caution, and medical advice should be sought for serious or persistent infections.

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