Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) has a long history of use in North American herbal medicine, particularly among Native American tribes and later in Western herbal traditions. Its traditional uses include supporting the immune system and managing infections, which indirectly relates to its use for "swollen glands"—a lay term often referring to swollen lymph nodes associated with infection or inflammation. The primary active compounds in goldenseal are berberine and hydrastine, which have demonstrated antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory studies. However, there is scant scientific research specifically evaluating goldenseal for swollen lymph nodes or lymphatic support. Traditional herbalists have often used goldenseal as a "blood purifier" and for supporting the body's response to infections, which can cause lymph node swelling. Despite these traditions, no clinical trials confirm its efficacy for this particular indication. Thus, the use of goldenseal for swollen glands or lymphatic conditions is supported by traditional practices rather than robust scientific evidence. The overall evidence rating is low, reflecting the lack of direct clinical validation for this specific use, though its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects are somewhat understood in broader contexts.

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