Wild Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) Rhizome/Root Alkaloid Content in Relation to Colony and Harvest Stage

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis study examined the three major alkaloids (berberine, hydrastine, and canadine) in wild goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) roots and rhizomes in relation to plant colony and harvest stage. Goldenseal colonies in central Pennsylvania, USA, were sampled on four dates (July 2, August 7, September 8, and October 12) corresponding with observable phenological stages between fruit maturity and senescence. Variation was observed for all three alkaloids with berberine and hydrastine present in all colonies and samples, while canadine was not detected during some late season sample dates. Nineteen root samples (53%) met the established United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards for berberine content, while only one sample (2.8%) met USP standards for hydrastine. All colonies and samples showed an increase in alkaloid levels at the time of senescence, which corroborated the industry guidance that rhizomes/roots should be harvested at senescence (typically during the Fall season). Harvesting at senescence also permits fruit to mature and thereby facilitates sexual reproduction. However, alkaloid levels averaged the second highest at fruit maturity (July 2) which suggested that alkaloids may fluctuate during the growing season in response to, or as a function of, key reproductive events.