Traditional Uses for Goldthread
Goldthread has been a significant herb in both Ayurvedic and Chinese traditional medicine. Dating back to the Tang dynasty, it was used to create a medicine known as Huang-Lian-Jie-Du Decoction (HLJDD), which remains in use today. Herbalists rely on HLJDD to treat various ailments, including soothing irritation, promoting normal blood sugar levels, and supporting gastrointestinal health.
Native Americans also valued goldthread, using it as a digestive aid and to treat infections and mouth sores, earning it the nickname “canker root.” Beyond its therapeutic uses, Indigenous Americans utilized goldthread for its bright gold color to produce yellow dye and to flavor beer.
Health Benefits of Goldthread
The healing properties of goldthread are not just based on folklore. Modern medicine has begun to explore its potential health benefits. Animal studies have shown that goldthread can reduce redness, swelling, and irritation. Research has also indicated that goldthread can help maintain normal blood sugar levels and support brain health.
Goldthread’s healing abilities are attributed to its high concentrations of potent alkaloid compounds, particularly berberine. Berberine is known for its numerous therapeutic applications, including protecting against certain harmful organisms, soothing irritated tissues, promoting normal lipid profiles, and boosting the immune system. Studies suggest that berberine may benefit individuals suffering from obesity. It also supports heart health, bone and joint health, brain health, digestive health, liver health, and respiratory health. Intriguingly, berberine has been evaluated for its potential activity against cancer, though more research is needed to fully understand its capabilities.
Besides berberine, goldthread contains other beneficial alkaloids such as palmatine, epiberberine, jaterorhizine, columbamine, and coptisine. Coptisine, in particular, has garnered attention for its potential to promote brain health. It may also help reduce fever, relieve discomfort, support heart health, and act as a strong antioxidant. Additionally, coptisine encourages normal cellular respiration.
Where to Find Goldthread
Various species of goldthread are native to Asia and North America, with some being critically endangered. This endangerment is due to both genetic factors and human activities. A genetic mutation causing low pollen and seed production affects up to 80% of Coptis teeta, a type of goldthread from the eastern Himalayas. Overexploitation by humans, driven by the herb’s desirable therapeutic properties, has also contributed to its scarcity.
Finding a substitute for goldthread can be challenging. Goldenseal is another herb that contains berberine, but it too has been over-harvested, and its quality in drug stores is often questionable. Oregon grape root may be a better alternative, as it is more sustainable and readily available, despite having a lower berberine concentration. In fact, Oregon grape root is so common that it is often considered an invasive species outside its native habitat.
While some varieties of goldthread are endangered and need protection, other species remain abundant. Populations of some previously threatened species, like the North American coptis trifolia, are recovering. If sourced carefully, goldthread remains a viable option. It is available in supplements, both as a standalone herb and blended with other herbs.