Hi, Martha here…I really want to introduce you to Goldenseal, a plant native to North America, that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its powerful healing properties. We have been using Goldenseal from the very beginning of Life Elements, way before it became another “must-have” ingredient in the skincare world for its ability to treat various skin conditions. Here are the benefits of goldenseal for skin health, why it works, and how to incorporate it into your skincare routine.

INTRO

Goldenseal has a wide range of health benefits, from boosting the immune system to treating digestive issues. However, its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it particularly beneficial for skin health. Once I dove into the properties of Goldenseal, I knew it was an ingredient I had to incorporate into our skincare due to its incredible antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory qualities. In this article, we'd like to show you how goldenseal can help improve skin conditions such as acne, inflammation, and irritation, and provide guidance on selecting the right products for your skincare needs.

Reducing Inflammation

Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Goldenseal contains berberine, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation, goldenseal can alleviate redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with these conditions. According to a study published in the *Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine*, berberine's anti-inflammatory effects make it a promising treatment for inflammatory skin diseases.

Improving Acne and Redness

Acne is often caused by bacterial infections and excess oil production. The antibacterial properties of berberine helps to combat acne-causing bacteria, while its astringent properties reduce oiliness. This combination makes goldenseal an effective natural remedy for acne. Research suggests that berberine can significantly reduce acne lesions and improve overall skin appearance .

Itching and Irritation

Itchy and irritated skin can result from various conditions, including allergic reactions, insect bites, and dermatitis. Goldenseal’s soothing properties can help calm the skin and reduce itching when applied to the skin for rashes and other skin problems. 

Eczema and Similar Skin Conditions

Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Goldenseal is one of the best ingredients for eczema. It can provide relief for eczema sufferers by moisturizing the skin and reducing inflammation. Its antimicrobial properties also help prevent secondary infections, which are common in eczema patients. A clinical trial published in *Dermatologic Therapy* reported that topical applications of berberine, a key component of goldenseal, significantly improved eczema symptoms.

How to Incorporate Goldenseal into Your Skincare Routine

Integrating goldenseal into your skincare routine can enhance your skin’s health and appearance. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Cleanser: Use a gentle cleanser that contains goldenseal extract to cleanse your skin without stripping away natural oils.
2. Body Lotion: Apply Life Elements CBD Body Lotion with goldenseal to help balance your skin’s pH levels and hydrate your skin .
3. Body OIl: Incorporate a goldenseal-infused oil to moisturize and help specific skin issues like eczema and inflammation.
4. Lotion Bar or Salve: Our Healing Honey Stick and Skin Repair (with CBD) can be used for your daily skincare routine or skin irritations.
5. Spot Treatment: Use a concentrated goldenseal product for spot treatment on acne or irritated areas.

Alternatives to Goldenseal

Goldenseal is not the only botanical ingredient with skin benefits. Here’s how it compares to other popular alternatives:

1. Goldenseal vs. Berberine: As discussed above, Berberine is a component of the Goldenseal plant. Berberine alone is effective, but the full spectrum of Goldenseal properties offers a more holistic approach.
2. Echinacea vs. Goldenseal: Echinacea is known for boosting immunity and reducing inflammation, but goldenseal's antimicrobial properties make it more effective for treating skin infections.
3. Goldenseal vs. Mayapple: Mayapple has similar anti-inflammatory properties, but it can be more irritating to the skin compared to goldenseal.
4. Goldenseal vs. Turmeric: Turmeric is excellent for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but goldenseal’s antimicrobial action makes it more suitable for acne-prone skin.
5. Yellow Root vs. Goldenseal: Yellow root also contains berberine, but goldenseal has a broader spectrum of benefits.
6. Elderberry vs. Goldenseal: Elderberry is rich in antioxidants and beneficial for overall skin health, while goldenseal is more targeted towards treating infections and inflammation.
7. Ginseng vs. Goldenseal: Ginseng is great for anti-aging and revitalizing the skin, but goldenseal is more effective for treating specific skin conditions.
8. Golden Thread vs. Goldenseal: Both are antimicrobial, but Goldenseal has stronger anti-inflammatory properties, making it more effective for inflammatory skin conditions.

Forms of Goldenseal

Goldenseal is available in various forms, each with its unique benefits:

1. Goldenseal Leaf vs. Root: The root contains higher concentrations of berberine and is generally more potent for medicinal uses. The leaf can be used for milder skin conditions.
2. Goldenseal Root vs. Herb: The root is the most commonly used part for its therapeutic properties, while the herb (whole plant) can be used for less concentrated applications.
3. Goldenseal vs. Goldenseal Root: Products labeled as “goldenseal” typically refer to the whole plant, while “goldenseal root” specifically refers to the root, which is more potent.
4. Infused Oil: We incorporate Goldenseal into our products  by steeping the Goldenseal herb (root, stems, and leaves) in olive oil, which results in a deep, rich green colored oil that is full of natural healing benefits, moisturizing squalene, and antioxidants. 

 For more Goldenseal information, please take a look at these websites:

• Medline Plus - Goldenseal and Acne 

• Healthline: Offers detailed information on the benefits and uses of goldenseal.

• WebMD: Provides comprehensive data on goldenseal’s health benefits and side effects.

• Medical News Today: Covers the latest research and benefits of goldenseal and its compounds like Berberine.

Thanks for reading, thanks for everything! 

- Martha 

 Pictured: Martha today, still in touch with her wild 70's side 

*FDA DISCLAIMER: These statements and any information contained on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for medical care or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult individual products labels for safety information.