Goldenseal is a rich yellow herb that is a relative to the Buttercup and is a native to North America. It contains two medicinal alkaloids, Berberine and Hydrastine which acts as immune system boosters and anti-infection agents against viruses and bacteria. Take Goldenseal at the onset of a cold or flu and it will help your White Blood Cells fight the virus or prevent the sickness from further developing altogether. It can also have a similar affect on urinary tract infections. Goldenseal also has been shown to combat cold sores, shingles and chronic fatigue syndrome.