Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) has been used for centuries to treat digestive complaints, allergies, eye irritation, and dozens of other common conditions. Along with echinacea, ginseng, and ginkgo, it’s among the most versatile and potent of the medicinal herbs. Rosemary Gladstar, a wellknown herbalist and founder of United Plant Savers, says goldenseal is “quite possibly one of the most useful and valuable plants of North America.” And demand for goldenseal has never been higher — so much so that the survival of this impressive plant is in serious jeopardy. Goldenseal is being harvested at a rate that exceeds its ability to grow back. It’s becoming increasingly rare and expensive. As demand and prices rise, it’s often produced in adulterated forms, either by mixing the powder with other herbs or by grinding up the entire plant and selling it as “root.” In either case, the lower potency means people have to take more, and this in turn has led to even heavier harvesting. Unless alternatives are found, the demise of this precious herb may be close at hand.