Goldthread vs Harrisonia Abyssinica

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Goldthread

Coptis trifolia

Antimicrobial

Harrisonia abyssinica

Antimicrobial

Goldthread

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Harrisonia Abyssinica

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

A small forest herb with bright golden roots rich in berberine, used by Native Americans for mouth sores and digestive complaints.

East African shrub used for malaria, skin infections, and gastrointestinal disorders across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Active Compounds

Berberine, Coptisine, Palmatine, Jatrorrhizine

harrisonin, limonoids, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids

Traditional Uses

Mouth sores, Digestive aid, Eye wash, Fever

Malaria treatment, Skin infections, Gastrointestinal disorders, Fever

Modern Uses

Antimicrobial, Digestive bitter, Anti-inflammatory, Mouthwash

Antimalarial activity, Antibacterial effects, Anti-inflammatory properties, Antifungal action

Adult Dosage

0.5-2g dried root as tea 2-3x daily

Root or bark decoction: 1 cup 2-3 times daily

Contraindications

Pregnancy, Jaundice in newborns

Pregnancy

Side Effects

GI upset, Nausea, Constipation

Mild digestive effects

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E