| |  | | Goldenseal Ointment for Skin Infections?
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Terri
Posted on: December 7, 2003
Can you mix powdered goldenseal with vaseline to make an ointment for infected sores? If not what do you mix it with? Will it clear up any skin infection or fungus mixed as an ointment or cream? Can you just apply the powder directly to the wound? Will it still have antibiotic effects?
An ointment can be made by mixing one teaspoon of goldenseal powder in one ounce of Vaseline and heating gently to dissolve. In most cases, the ointment will be more effective than applying the powder directly to the wound. The Vaseline keeps the powder in contact with the wound and keeps dirt and airborne germs out.
Although goldenseal is antibacterial and can be used to heal skin tissue, it is an endangered plant. So it is best to use alternatives for this purpose. The most important use of goldenseal is healing ulcerated mucous membranes in the mouth, throat, intestines and vagina. Goldenseal is not antifungal.
Following are herbs that are effective in skin infections: Infected wounds: Echinacea or myrrh tincture to disinfect and support healing. Apply a plantain salve several times daily until wound is healed.
In injuries, for protection against tetanus and for injuries affecting nerves: St. John’s wort internally and externally as a cream or salve..
Fungal infections: tea tree oil. Myrrh and calendula tinctures internally, creams externally.
Plantain is a soothing, antibacterial, astringent herb that is most commonly substituted for goldenseal for both internal and external use.
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