Traditional Uses for Goldthread
Goldthread has long been a staple in both Ayurvedic and Chinese traditional medicine. Dating back to the Tang dynasty, it was used to create Huang-Lian-Jie-Du Decoction (HLJDD), a medicine still in use today. Herbalists rely on HLJDD to address a range of ailments, including reducing irritation, regulating blood sugar, and promoting gastrointestinal health.
Native Americans also found goldthread valuable as a digestive aid and a remedy for infections and mouth sores, which earned it the nickname “canker root.” Beyond its medicinal uses, goldthread’s bright gold color made it useful for producing yellow dye and flavoring beer.
Health Benefits of Goldthread
The health benefits of goldthread extend beyond folklore. Modern medicine has begun exploring its potential, and animal studies confirm that goldthread can reduce redness, swelling, and irritation. Research indicates it can help regulate blood sugar and support brain health.
Goldthread’s therapeutic properties come from its high concentration of potent alkaloid compounds, particularly berberine. Berberine has numerous health benefits: it protects against harmful organisms, soothes irritated tissue, maintains normal lipid profiles, and boosts the immune system. Studies suggest berberine may help those dealing with obesity and is beneficial for heart, bone, joint, brain, digestive, liver, and respiratory health. Interestingly, berberine is also being researched for its potential activity against cancer, although more studies are needed to confirm these effects.
Besides berberine, goldthread contains other beneficial alkaloids such as palmatine, epiberberine, jaterorhizine, columbamine, and coptisine. Coptisine, in particular, has garnered attention for its ability to promote brain health. It also helps reduce fever, relieves discomfort, supports heart health, acts as a strong antioxidant, and promotes normal cellular respiration.
Where to Find Goldthread
Goldthread varieties are native to Asia and North America, but some are critically endangered. This is due to both genetic and human causes. A random mutation causes low pollen and seed production in certain species, affecting up to 80% of Coptis teeta from the eastern Himalayas. Additionally, overexploitation has led to widespread overharvesting due to goldthread’s desirable properties.
Finding a substitute for goldthread can be challenging. Goldenseal, another herb containing berberine, has also been over-harvested, and its quality in drug stores is often questionable. Oregon grape root might be a better alternative; although it has a lower berberine concentration, it is more sustainable and widely available. In fact, Oregon grape root is often considered an invasive species outside its native habitat.
Despite some species of goldthread being endangered, others are still plentiful. Populations of previously threatened species like North American coptis trifolia are recovering. By sourcing carefully, goldthread remains a viable option. It is available in supplements, either on its own or blended with other herbs.
