materia medica: solidago spp.

Goldenrod...one of my favorite herbs.

When the goldenrod starts to bloom, you know the hot summer days are coming to an end, and the cool nights may have already begun. It signals a transition in the cycle of the seasons.

Goldenrod, sometimes called woundwort, often gets blamed for fall allergies. In fact, goldenrod is pollinated by bees and does not release pollen into the air -- so it's not usually what causing the fall allergies -- that's ragweed, which has a similar look and blooms at the same time. Ironically, goldenrod offers relief from allergies caused by ragweed!

Solidago canadensis is the type most often found here in East Tennessee, along with what's known as Blue Stem Goldenrod (Solidago caesia), which blooms first where I am. S. caesia is more of a stalk, S. canadensis is more of a feathery flower.

When I first moved to Tiger Creek Cottage, there was no goldenrod on the property! It was abundant along the roadsides everywhere I went, but none here. One day I went out to the road and dug some up and planted it in several places around the property and now I have quite a few nice size stands. Because this plant was found along the road, I do not use it for making plant medicine yet -- it's good to give it a few years to work the road salts and other toxins out of its roots.

Interesting fact: The USDA warns against planting Goldenrod in landscapes or gardens because it spreads very quickly and because it produces chemicals that reduce and prevent germination of other plants, a process called allelopathy. I find this to be a very peculiar warnings since whenever I see goldenrod growing along the roadside, it's surrounded by several other plants such as Giant Ironweed, Jewelweed, Evening Primrose, etc. I've never seen it standing all by its lonesome in a field. Here at Tiger Creek Cottage, it grows alongside Echinacea, Elder and Lemon Balm in one of my gardens.

Goldenrod flowers are edible and can be eaten lightly fried or in a salad. The leaves can be cooked and eaten like spinach.

Medicinal Uses

All parts of the goldenrod plant have medicinal qualities, however the leaves and flowers are just as powerful as the roots, so no reason to destroy the plant. It can be used as a medicinal tea or tincture, or for children, you can make a goldenrod syrup.

Goldenrod is very astringent (drying) making it ideal for urinary and respiratory issues. It's antiseptic properties make is useful in treating urinary tract infections and bladder infections. It also restores balance to the kidneys which is helpful in preventing kidney stones. It is safe for long-term use, however since it's a diuretic, it can be overly drying.

Goldenrod's antifungal properties make it an effective remedy for yeast infections. You can drink tea for internal infections or use powder for external ones. A gargle can also be used for oral thrush.

Goldenrod stimulates the digestive system while also calming the inflammation and irritation that causes diarrhea. Because it's both anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial, it attacks the symptoms AND the cause of the diarrhea.

The anti-inflammatory properties also make it an effective remedy for reducing pain and swelling in the joints. It can be used for gout, arthritis, and other joint aches and pains.

Goldenrod contains rutin, a powerful antioxidant that improves the cardiovascular system. It is a tonic herb for the cardiovascular system, providing support, and it also helps to strengthen the capillaries.

And finally, because it is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and astringent, it's an excellent choice for wounds and skin irritations. It will help a wound to heal quickly while also preventing infection. It stops bleeding. It calms burns. This is why it has the nickname of woundwort. So many uses!

Goldenrod Tea

If you're wanting to try making some Goldenrod tea, it's simple to do! You'll need 2 cups of boiling water and 1 Tablespoon of fresh goldenrod (or 2t of dried). Pour the boiling water of the goldenrod. Cover and allow to steep for 15-20 minutes. Strain and serve.

You'll notice it's bitter -- this is how it stimulates the digestive system. You can add some mint to the mixture while it steeps, or add a drop of raw honey to sweeten it.

Share with us if you decide to give Goldenrod Tea a try!

P.S. As a reminder, I am a Clinical Herbalist -- not a medical professional. All of the information I am providing is based on my own personal experiences and should only be used for educational purposes. Never try any herbs or herbal remedies without first consulting your doctor.