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Potential Goldenseal Side Effects, Adverse Reactions And Contraindications

Seizures and hallucinations

The American Cancer Society warns that long-term or excessive use of the herb may cause you to suffer from hallucinations. This possible goldenseal side effect is possibly due to its effects on the central nervous system. If you have a history of seizures or mental health problems of this kind, it is advisable that you contact your healthcare professional before use.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Goldenseal is not safe to use during pregnancy because it can cause serious side effects to the development of the unborn baby. According to WebMD, there is evidence that using goldenseal during pregnancy can cause brain damage, most likely because the toxic chemicals in goldenseal have transferred through the placenta. The American Cancer Society also warned in a 2008 information pack that goldenseal might tighten the womb and increase the risk of miscarriage.

This herb should also not be given to young children due to the above possible goldenseal side effects, and thus you should refrain from using the product during breastfeeding.

Medicine interactions and contraindications

Just like other herbs, potential goldenseal side effects include interactions with other herbs and medicines. The medications that are known to interact negatively with goldenseal include:

* Cyclosporine
* Digoxin
* Tetracycline
* Anticoagulants / blood thinners – it can increase your risk of bleeding and you should not use it together with any other supplements or medications that are used for blood thinning purposes.
* Medications used by pump – some medications are used with a pump in the body and goldenseal can decrease the function of these pumps and thus make you receive less of the medication.

The above list was provided by the University of Maryland Medical Center in their information package reviewed in 2011.

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