Goldenrod

Goldenrod, Solidago species, is a member of the Asteraceae family (Aster, Daisy, Sunflower, etc.). A perennial growing from 28″ up to around 6′ tall, it has toothed leaves that have a light licorice smell and taste and flowers that are reminiscent of anise in flavor. The leaves are lance-like and about the length of your palm or hand, depending on maturity. It has branched spikes of golden yellow flowers, creating a narrow plant. The flowers will form green clusters of little balls before they bloom in late summer and early fall.

Goldenrod is native to Europe and Asia and has been naturalized in North America. In my area of Texas, goldenrod is the most readily available plant I have ever seen. Even more so than pine if you ask me, and I’m in the Piney Woods. It is EVERYWHERE!

Goldenrod is accused of causing allergies during this time of year, but it is actually a very valuable remedy against allergies. It is accused of this because it often grows alongside ragweed in the fall. Ragweed has white flowers, while goldenrod is yellow, with very light pollen that is easily airborne with the slightest wind. Goldenrod pollen is too dense and sticky to float in the air and falls to the ground. It can only be transported by bees, who absolutely love this plant. Goldenrod is often the last source of food they can get to before the winter, so never over-harvest…which would be pretty hard to do if you live in an area like mine, but it still merits a mention.

There is no way that goldenrod can be causing the allergies you may experience during the fall unless you are allergic to the plant itself, no matter what people may tell you. Ragweed, which is a relative, is the culprit. I find it very poetic that goldenrod usually grows alongside ragweed. The remedy grows beside the cause. How awesome is that?

Goldenrod Contains:

• Saponins
• Phenolic glucosides
• Diterpenes
• Acetylenes
• Cinnamates
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Hydroxybenzoates
• Inulin

The saponins are antifungal!

Key Actions:

• Antioxidant
• Diuretic
• Astringent

"Goldenrod is extolled above all other herbs for the stopping of blood in bleeding wounds."

- John Gerard (1597)

Dried goldenrod can be ground into a powder and then applied to wounds to stop bleeding.

Goldenrod is an antioxidant, diuretic, and astringent, making it a valuable remedy for urinary tract problems. It can be used for serious ailments like nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys) and more common problems like cystitis (inflammation of the urinary tract/bladder). She has been known to flush out kidney and bladder stones! The saponins in goldenrod act against the Candida fungus, which causes yeast infections and thrush. Sore throats, chronic nasal congestion, and diarrhea can all be treated with goldenrod. The actions of goldenrod are mild, making this plant suitable for giving to children. You can make a mouthwash or a douche for yeast infections with a simple infusion. Cool before using!

There are various species of goldenrod, most of which have medicinal properties that have been used for colds, fevers, chest pain, and as a sweat-inducer.

Seedlings will emerge mid-winter to early spring next to the dried-out remains of the prior year’s growth. The stem will be relatively smooth and hairless. In midsummer, you may see a development of round galls home to a single, small grub of the goldenrod gall fly. Grubs are edible and good fishing bait.

Goldenrod can be easily found on roadsides, forest borders, and standing in fields, turning entire swaths of land gold in the fall. It really is a beautiful sight.

It is not encouraged to pick any plant from the side of a busy highway. The plants can absorb toxic exhaust from vehicles and cause just as many problems as the plant can cure over time.

Goldenrod Tinctures and Infusions

The awesomeness of this plant can be wielded as an infusion and drank 2-3 times a day or in 1 tsp. tincture 3 times a day for most ailments. Dilute tincture in an equal part of water to make it easier to take if needed.