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Botanical

Goldenseal

Goldenseal, Hydrastis canadensis, is a North American plant with a yellow underground stem. It contains the alkaloid berberine.

Also listed as Hydrastis canadensis, Chinese Goldenseal, Golden Seal, Goldenseal Extract

Gut HealthImmune Support

The metformin interaction depends on context

The 2025 study found no clinically meaningful interaction in the aggregate data, but metformin exposure fell more at lower metformin doses. The authors recommend caution because glucose control could change. This does not support self-adjusting either product. 1

Other medicines and vulnerable groups

Human studies suggest goldenseal can interfere with drug-processing enzymes CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, potentially increasing adverse effects of affected medicines. MSK also advises against use during pregnancy or nursing because its berberine may harm newborns. 2

For information, not individual medical advice. Ingredient studies do not establish the effectiveness of these products.

Sources

  2. Goldenseal Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center