This herb, Coptis chinesis, is known in Chinese Medicine for its ability to dispel excessive body moisture (dampness or edema) and heat. (Heat in Chinese herbology means hyperactive function, not necessarily a feeling of heat.) In addition, it is known to stimulate the secretion of saliva, gastric and pancreatic juices, as well as stimulate the activities of the gastrointestinal tract.
Gold Thread contains a substance (berberine) which increases formation of bile and reduces its thickness (to help the flow of bile). It is very good for chronic gall bladder inflammation. Some references indicate that it is known for its natural antibiotic effect, especially when some bacterium have developed resistance to chemical drugs. It appears to strengthen the body in its effort to inhibit the influenza virus.
Other references indicate its effectiveness against symptoms of excessive heat, high fever, delirium, disorientation, anxiety, irritability, insomnia, emaciation, thirst, sore throat and red tongue.
Chinese references recommend Gold Thread for abdominal pain and cramps, vomiting, acid regurgitation, diarrhea and dysentery. It is also used for tenesmus (ineffectual and and painful straining at stool).
In vitro (test tube), Gold Thread has a strong inhibitory action against hemolytic strepto-coccus pneumonia (the organism most often causing lobar pneumonia.)
It is also recommended as a treatment for tumors, boils, and carbuncles (inflammations under the skin).