Goldenseal use while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) root contains berberine and other isoquinoline alkaloids. Goldenseal has traditionally been used as an anti-infective both systemically and topically, although high-quality studies of its efficacy and safety are lacking. It has also been used to mask illicit drugs in the urine, although it appears to be ineffective with modern laboratory methods. Goldenseal has been used topically by nursing mothers to treat sore nipples.[1] No data exist on the excretion of any components of goldenseal into breastmilk or on the safety and efficacy of goldenseal in nursing mothers. Berberine can displace bilirubin from serum albumin, causing concern about exposure of newborn infants, because bilirubin can build up in the infant's brain, causing brain damage. However, the extent of berberine's passage from the mother to the infant is unknown. Most sources recommend avoiding exposure of neonates to goldenseal via breastfeeding or otherwise.[2-4]

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Drug Levels

Maternal Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects in Breastfed Infants

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

References

1.

Fleiss P. Herbal remedies for the breastfeeding mother. Mothering 1988;Summer:68-71.

2.

Amir L, Pirotta M, Raval M. Breastfeeding - Evidence based guidelines for the use of medicines. Aust Fam Physician 2011;40:684-90. [PubMed: 21894275]

3.

O'Hara M, Kiefer D, Farrell K, et al. A review of 12 commonly used medicinal herbs. Arch Fam Med 1998;7:523-36. [PubMed: 9821826]

4.

Yarnell E. Botanical medicine in pregnancy and lactation. Altern Complement Ther 1997;3 (April):93-100. doi:10.1089/act.1997.3.93 [CrossRef]

Substance Name

Goldenseal

Scientific Name

Hydrastis canadensis

CAS Registry Number

84603-60-1

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Milk, Human

Complementary Therapies

Phytotherapy

Plants, Medicinal