Goldenseal(Hydrastis canadensis): One of the most widely used American herbs, goldenseal is considered to be a tonic remedy that stimulates the immune response, and is directly antimicrobial itself. In addition, because of its bitter effects it can help in many digestive problems, from peptic ulcers to colitis.⁵⁸ Its bitter stimulation helps in loss of appetite, and the alkaloids it contains stimulate production and secretion of digestive juices. The antimicrobial properties are due to alkaloids, such as berberine.⁵⁹ Berberine, found in a number of other herbs as well, has marked antimicrobial activity. Not as powerful as an antibiotic, it nonetheless has a broad spectrum of activity. Effects have been demonstrated against bacteria, protozoa, and fungi, including Staphylococcus sp., Streptococcus sp., Candida albicans, and Gardia lanbia.⁶⁰ Berberine's action in inhibiting candida prevents the overgrowth of yeast that is a common side effect of antibiotic use. This alkaloid has also been shown to activate macrophages (cells that digest cell debris and other waste matter in the blood) in a number of ways.⁶¹ Traditionally, goldenseal has been used during labor to help contractions, and for this reason it should be avoided during pregnancy. Applied externally it can be helpful in eczema, ringworm, itching, earache, and conjunctivitis.