Golden Seal is one of the most useful herbs available to us. It owes most of its specific uses to the powerful tonic qualities shown towards the mucous membranes of the body. It is thus of service in all digestive problems, for example in gastritis, septic ulceration and colitis. Its bitter stimulation gives it a role in loss of appetite. All catarrhal states benefit from Golden Seal, especially upper respiratory tract catarrh. The tonic and astringency contribute to its use in uterine conditions such as menorrhagia (excessive menstruation) and haemorrhage. With the additional stimulation of involuntary muscles, it is an excellent aid during childbirth, but for just this reason it should be avoided during pregnancy. Externally it is used for the treatment of eczema, ringworm, pruritis (itching), ear ache and conjunctivitis. The New Holistic Herbal by David Hoffmann Pg. 204