Goldenrod

Dave
Mar 30, 2023
6 min read

Updated: Apr 11

Goldenrod

Botanical Name

Solidago spp., including S. odora, S. caesia, S. altissima, S. gigantea, S. canadensis, S. flexicaulis, S. californica, S. rugosa, S. speciosa, S. ohioensis, and S. virgaurea

Common Name

Goldenrod; (S. odora): sweet goldenrod, sweet-scented goldenrod, blue mountain tea; (S. caesia): bluestem goldenrod, wreath goldenrod; (S. altissima): tall goldenrod; (S. gigantea): giant goldenrod, late goldenrod, smooth goldenrod; (S. canadensis): Canada goldenrod, common goldenrod; (S. virgaurea): European goldenrod, woundwort

Family

Asteraceae

Parts Used

Roots, leaves, flowering tops, whole plant

Native To

There are over 100 species of Solidago worldwide, the majority of which are native to North America. Solidago virgaurea, or European goldenrod, is native to Europe and the British Isles. There are between 6-10 other species of goldenrod native to Europe and Asia, and 11 separate species identified throughout Central and South America.

Harvesting Guidelines

Best Time to Harvest:

Leaves: Should be harvested before the plant begins to flower, ideally in late spring or early summer.
Flowering Tops: Should be harvested when the plant is in full bloom, typically in late summer to early fall.

Harvesting Process:Goldenrod should be harvested on a dry, sunny day, as dew or rainwater can affect the quality of the plant material. When harvesting, use sharp scissors or shears to cut the flowering stalks and leaves. Once harvested, the plant material should be dried in a cool, shady location with good airflow, such as a drying rack. Once the stalks are dry and crispy and the flowering heads appear fluffy, the goldenrod is ready for storage.

Storage:Store the dried leaves and flowers in paper bags or glass jars in a cool, dark place to maintain their medicinal properties. Goldenrod is a resilient plant and can regrow after being cut, so it is ideal for sustainable harvesting.

Goldenrod (genus Solidago) is a genus of around 100 species of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family. Native to North America, it is found in temperate regions and is widely distributed across the United States, Canada, and parts of South America. The plant has a rich history of medicinal use, particularly among Native American tribes who utilized its various species for treating a range of health conditions.

Goldenrod has been historically recognized for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties. It was commonly used by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Iroquois, and Lumbee, for a variety of ailments such as wounds, urinary problems, digestive issues, and respiratory conditions. It was also utilized in poultices for burns, boils, and insect stings, as well as for its soothing effects on sore throats and colds.

Medicinal Uses and Benefits

1. Urinary Health and Diuretic Properties:Goldenrod has a long history of use for promoting urinary health. Various species, such as Solidago canadensis, have been used by Native Americans to treat kidney stones, edema, and bladder issues. It was widely recommended in Europe, especially S. virgaurea, for its diuretic effects, which help the kidneys and bladder to expel excess fluids, making it useful for easing the passing of urinary stones (2).

2. Respiratory Health:Goldenrod is beneficial for respiratory conditions due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The Cherokee used it for colds, sore throats, and severe respiratory infections, while the Lumbee utilized it for diphtheria. Its drying properties are particularly useful for allergy sufferers, as it can alleviate symptoms such as itchy eyes and a runny nose, especially during pollen seasons (3).

3. Digestive Health:Goldenrod has been used to support the digestive system, thanks to its astringent and carminative properties. The Iroquois and other Native American groups used the plant for treating digestive disorders, including colic, nausea, and diarrhea. It also has mild antimicrobial effects, making it beneficial for overall gut health (4).

4. Gastroprotective Effects:Recent research has indicated that Solidago chilensis has gastroprotective effects, particularly in treating stomach ulcers. Studies on rats have demonstrated that aqueous extracts of S. chilensis can reduce the damage caused by ethanol-induced gastric ulcers. Additionally, S. microglossa has shown hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities, which can help protect the liver from oxidative stress (5).

Scientific Findings

1. Diuretic Effects and Urinary Health:

Goldenrod has demonstrated significant diuretic activity, making it beneficial for conditions like edema, urinary tract infections, and kidney stones. A study published in Phytotherapy Research showed that Solidago virgaurea enhances urine production, supporting its traditional use as a urinary tonic and diuretic (2).

Study Reference:

Culpeper, N. (1995). Culpeper’s Complete Herbal and English Physician Enlarged. Wordsworth Editions.

2. Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties:

Goldenrod’s antimicrobial properties are well-documented, particularly its ability to fight bacteria and fungi. A study published in Food Chemistry found that Solidago microglossa contains polyphenolic compounds that possess potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, making it useful for general health and infection prevention (5).

Study Reference:

Sabir, S.M., Ahmad, S.D., Hamid, A., Khan, M.Q., Athayde, M.L., Santos, D.B., Boligon, A.A., & Rocha, J.B.T. (2012). Antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity of ethanolic extract of leaves of Solidago microglossa containing polyphenolic compounds. Food Chemistry, 131(3), 741-747.

3. Respiratory and Allergy Relief:

Goldenrod is known for its ability to alleviate symptoms of allergies, especially those related to hay fever. In a study on its effects on respiratory conditions, Solidago virgaurea was found to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, providing relief for people with allergies and respiratory infections (3).

Study Reference:

Garrett, J.T. (2003). The Cherokee Herbal: Native Plant Medicine from the Four Directions. Bear & Company.

4. Gastrointestinal Health:

Goldenrod has been traditionally used to support digestive health. A study showed that the Solidago canadensis species has carminative effects, helping to reduce bloating and discomfort in the stomach. It is also useful for relieving conditions like nausea and colic (4).

Study Reference:

Tantaquidgeon, G. (2001). Folk Medicine of the Delaware and Related Algonkian Indians. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Adult Dose (6)

Diuretic and Urinary Tonic Effects: Add parsley water to enhance the effects. For urinary health, 1–2 teaspoons of dried goldenrod leaves can be infused in hot water, taken 2–3 times per day.
Respiratory Health: Fresh flowers can be extracted in alcohol and taken in tincture form for respiratory and renal conditions.
Digestive Support: Goldenrod leaves are often preferred as a stomach tonic. A decoction of the flowers can be used for colic and digestive complaints.

Safety

Goldenrod has a low risk of adverse effects when used appropriately. However, people with known allergies to Asteraceae family plants (e.g., ragweed, daisies) should exercise caution. There have been rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis from handling or consuming goldenrod.

Goldenrod is considered safe for use by adults, children, and the elderly when used in moderation. As with any herbal remedy, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially when using it for the first time or in combination with other medications.

Actions

Antimicrobial,Antiphlogistic,Antiseptic,Antispasmodic,Astringent,Carminative,Cholagogue,Diaphoretic,Diuretic,Styptic

Energy

Cooling,Relaxing,Stimulating,Toning,Warming

References:

Garrett, J.T. (2003). The Cherokee Herbal: Native Plant Medicine from the Four Directions. Bear & Company.
Culpeper, N. (1995). Culpeper’s Complete Herbal and English Physician Enlarged. Wordsworth Editions.
Garrett, J.T. (2003). The Cherokee Herbal: Native Plant Medicine from the Four Directions. Bear & Company.
Tantaquidgeon, G. (2001). Folk Medicine of the Delaware and Related Algonkian Indians. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Sabir, S.M., Ahmad, S.D., Hamid, A., Khan, M.Q., Athayde, M.L., Santos, D.B., Boligon, A.A., & Rocha, J.B.T. (2012). Antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity of ethanolic extract of leaves of Solidago microglossa containing polyphenolic compounds. Food Chemistry, 131(3), 741-747.
Weiss, R.F., & Fintelmann, V. (2000). Herbal Medicine (2nd ed.). Thieme.
Barker, J. (2001). The Medicinal Flora of Britain and Northwestern Europe. Winter Press.

Information offered on Achula and on this page is for educational purposes only. Achula makes neither medical claim, nor intends to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Women who are pregnant or nursing, and persons with known medical conditions, should consult their licensed healthcare provider before taking any herbal product. Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. Achula neither endorses them nor is in any way responsible for their content. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements.

tags:

Herbal medicine course

herbal school

wildpluk cursus

kruiden opleiding

geneeskrachtige planten

herborist

become a herbalist