The Benefits of Goldenrod and how to find it. 

There is many benefits of goldenrod, and it is very easy to find. It grows like a weed.

If I could have only one herb in my pantry it would be Goldenrod!  This beautiful flower has so many uses including but not limited to UTI’s, digestion issues, relieves congestion and seasonal allergies, and promotes wound healing, and much more. The beautiful yellow flowers can be found in almost any wild field, in fact  it gets easily confused with ragweed. 

You can create salves and ointments with goldenrod as well, though it has its highest efficacy when used as a whole herb.

Potential side effects associated with goldenrod seem to be minimal. The primary known side effect is gastrointestinal issues. However, the lack of reported side effects doesn’t necessarily mean this herb is safe for everyone to use.

I want to mention supplemental use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.

History and Folklore

The genus name of goldenrod, Solidago, is derived from soldare, meaning ‘to make whole,’ because it was used as an herb that treated wounds (Grieve, 1979).

It is an herbal supplement with a long history in folk medicine.

Goldenrod has been a staple in the medicine cabinet of Native American Indians for millennia, where the whole plant was used in a variety of applications. The roots were used for burns, flower tea for fevers and snakebites and crushed flowers were used for sore throats, it was also used as an anti-inflammatory and to strengthen and support urinary function.

Benefits of goldenrod 

1. Promotes wound healing 

Historically, this flower was used by Native Americans as a poultice for treating wounds, burns, and sores. Some herbalists continue to use it on the skin to promote wound healing.

Create a poultice with goldenrod—or simply use the crushed herb—as a wound treatment for sores, burns, skin irritation, and even open wounds. It helps induce healing, and since it is a natural antimicrobial, it may inhibit the growth of bacteria.

Some people believe that it can even help relieve toothaches.

2. Reduces inflammation

Studies have shown that goldenrod may help relieve inflammation. It is commonly infused into oil and applied topically in the form of salves and lotions on sore muscles, injuries, and painful joints.

One study found that a medication prepared from goldenrod, aspen bark, and ash bark was just as effective as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

3. Relieves congestion

Goldenrod is exceptional at alleviating upper respiratory congestion stemming from allergies, sinusitis, flu, or the common cold. What a lovely thing that a respiratory herb can be so readily available to forage!

4. Rich in antioxidants

Antioxidants are essential for repairing cells and protecting them from free radical damage and oxidative stress, which has been linked to a variety of chronic diseases, including cancer.

Goldenrod contains 7 times more antioxidants than green tea, which has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including the ability to lower the risk of chronic illnesses.

5. May help with digestive issues

Some cultures use goldenrod as a digestive herb to help heal the digestive tract from diarrhea and inflammation.

Goldenrod is used to treat diarrhea by reducing inflammation caused by intestinal distress.

The bitter flavor of goldenrod also helps stimulate digestion and may enhance nutrient absorption.

6. Reduces seasonal allergy symptoms/colds and flu

Because goldenrod is an astringent plant, it may help relieve allergy symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing.

Some herbalists prescribe it for allergies to cats and other pets.

Classed as an astringent herb and a strong decongestant, Goldenrod can help to dry up congestion caused by colds, flu, allergies and sinus problems. It contains a flavonoid called quercetin which acts as an antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant. As a mild diaphoretic, Goldenrod helps to open up the pores and release heat through the skin, therefore supporting the reduction of a fever.

Its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties make this herb extremely soothing for sore throats and laryngitis.

For an exceptional throat gargle, you can combine goldenrod with sage in an infusion to soothe sore throats, thrush, and laryngitis.

How to Harvest Goldenrod

Goldenrod is one of the easiest plants to spot, it grows wild in fields, along trails and hollows that have some sunlight reaching onto them.

It is most easily confused with ragweed or giant ragweed.  But unlike ragweed it will not flare up your allergies. 

The only parts of the plant that are frequently used are the yellow flowering heads and the leaves. The stems don’t have much medicinal value. Though the root may have medicinal value, and is used frequently by Native Americans, it is not frequently used in western herbalism.

Harvest the flower heads and leaves at the same time—when the flowers have opened and are bright yellow. Try to avoid any leaves and flower heads that may have powdery mildew or browning. When harvesting, make sure to leave behind some flowering stems so that the plant will continue to grow for years to come.

You can typically find goldenrod starting in late summer through early fall.

What is the recommended dosage of goldenrod

The average dose for a tincture is 5-1 mL 2-3 times a day.

Dry extract

The dose of dry extract is 350-450 mg up to 3 times a day.

Precautions to take with goldenrod

Goldenrod may interact with certain drugs or cause side effects in people with certain health conditions. Some people may experience severe interactions with a few drugs, which can be fatal in rare cases.

You should avoid using goldenrod if you have any of the following conditions:

• Pregnancy
• Taking diabetes medications such as insulin and glipizide
• Family history of breast cancer
• Mental illness, such as mania or schizophrenia
• Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease

You should not do irrigation therapy while taking goldenrod in case of edema due to impaired heart and kidney function.

Though rare, goldenrod has caused allergic contact dermatitis after both handling and oral administration.Those with Asteraceae allergies should exercise caution with goldenrod as they could be reactive.