Scientific Name
Hydrastis canadensis
Common Name
Golden seal

CAUSES ONLY LOW TOXICITY IF EATEN.

Characteristics

Family
Ranunculaceae
Plant Description
Perennial herb from a rhizome with yellowish cell sap; leaves 2, near top of unbranched stem, 3-7-lobed and toothed; flower solitary, with many stamens and pistils and no petals; fruit berry-like, crimson.
Origin
USA, NC.
Distribution
Mountains.
Where Found
Forest or natural area in rich woods, landscape in cultivated gardens of medicinal plants, cultivated commercially on a small scale in the mountains.
Mode
Ingestion.
Poisonous Part
All parts.
Symptoms
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, nervousness, depression.
Toxic Principle
Isoquinoline alkaloids.
Severity
CAUSES ONLY LOW TOXICITY IF EATEN.

"Poisonous Plants of North Carolina," Dr. Alice B. Russell, Department of Horticultural Science; Dr. James W. Hardin, Botany; Dr. Larry Grand, Plant Pathology; and Dr. Angela Fraser, Family and Consumer Sciences; North Carolina State University. All Pictures Copyright @1997Alice B. Russell, James W. Hardin, Larry Grand. Computer programming, Miguel A. Buendia; graphics, Brad Capel.

Disclaimer: The list of poisonous plants on this web site does not necessarily include every poisonous plant that is known, or that might be found in an urban landscape or home. North Carolina State University does not advise eating any of the plants included in this web site. The information concerning edibility is taken from the literature, and the degree of reliability is unknown. We discourage the use of any of these plants for self medication. In cases of accidental exposure or ingestion, contact the Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222.

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