Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)

Tier 3 — weak evidence · Antimicrobial · Gut · Upper respiratory

Contains berberine (at lower concentrations than berberine supplements) and hydrastine. Traditionally used for upper respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. NCCIH says evidence for any specific health benefit is insufficient despite centuries of traditional use. The popular claim that it can mask drug tests is false. Endangered in the wild — choose cultivated sources. Avoid during pregnancy.

Dose: 500–1,000 mg/day root extract; short-term use only (2–3 weeks); endangered — use cultivated sources