Synopsis

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

Yellow root, commonly referring to Hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal) or sometimes Xanthorhiza simplicissima, has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine among Indigenous peoples and in early American herbalism. For respiratory congestion, yellow root was used in decoctions or teas as a remedy for colds, coughs, and lung congestion. The primary justification for its use is based on tradition: herbalists historically valued yellow root for its bitter alkaloids (notably berberine and hydrastine), which were believed to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that might support respiratory health.

However, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for lung congestion is quite limited. While berberine, a key component of yellow root, does exhibit some antimicrobial activity in laboratory studies, there is no robust clinical research demonstrating that yellow root alleviates lung congestion in humans. Most modern research on goldenseal focuses on its antimicrobial and immune-modulating properties, not specifically on respiratory congestion. Overall, the use of yellow root for congestion is rooted primarily in traditional herbal practices, and while some of its constituents have pharmacological activity, there is insufficient scientific validation for this specific use.

More about yellow root
More about Congestion (lungs)

Other ingredients used for Congestion (lungs)

Other health conditions supported by yellow root

Products containing yellow root

Vitabase Life's Essentials Plus