Goldenrod

Goldenrod

There are about 100 species of perennials in this genus, which is scattered throughout the northern hemisphere, but mainly in N America, where they have had a long history in native medicine. Many species and numerous hybrids and variants are grown in borders for their show of colors from mid-summer to autumn. They also naturalize well in meadows and wildflower areas. The constituents of Solidago virgaurea include saponins (similar to those found in Polygala species, see Senega Snakeroot), which are anti-fungal, rutin (as found in Ruta graveolens, see Rue), and phenolic glycosides,which are anti-inflammatory. Among the species recorded in native N American medicine are: S canadensis (Canada goldenrod), the flowers of which were chewed for sore throats; S odora (sweet goldenrod), listed as a stimulant and diaphoretic in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia (1820-82); and S. rigida (stiff goldenrod), which was made into a lotion for bee stings. Several species are used to make tea, including S. canadensis, S. graminifolia (fragrant goldenrod) and S. missouriensis (Missouri goldenrod). Best known is Blue Mountain tea, made from the dried leaves and flowers of S. odora. This species is further distinguished as the official State flower of Nebraska and Kentucky, and the State herb of Delaware. Solidago is from the Latin solidare, "to join" or "to make whole", and refers to the healing powers of these plants.

Variable perennial with a knotted rhizome, upright stems, and oblanceolate, finely toothed, pointed leaves, to 10cm (4in) long. Yellow flowers are borne in elongated, one-sided racemes in late summer, followed by brown fruits with a tuft of short, white hairs.

Common Name:

Goldenrod

Botanical Name:

Solidago vigaurea

Genus:

Solidago

Family:

Asteraceae

Native Location:

Europe.

Cultivation:

Well-drained, sandy to poor soil in sun. Leaves may be damaged by powdery mildew. The flowers of Solidago attract many different beneficial insects, such as lacewings and ladybugs, which are effective in controlling pests, especially aphids.

Propagation:

By seed sown in spring; by division in autumn or spring.

Harvest:

Leaves and flowering tops are picked before flowers are fully opened and dried for use in infusions, liquid extracts, ointments, powders, and tinctures.

Height:

80cm (32in)

Width:

45-60cm (18-24in)

Variations:

Subsp. minuta
Is dwarf. Needs moist soil.
Height: 20cm (8in)
Width: 20cm (8in)

Hardiness:

Z3-9

Parts Used:

Leaves, flowering tops.

Properties:

A bitter, astringent, relaxant herb that reduces inflammation, stimulates the liver and kidneys, and is also a good urinary antiseptic. It is also expectorant, improved digestion, promotes healing, and has anti-fungal effects.

Medicinal Uses:

Internally for kidney and bladder stones, urinary infections, chronic mucus and skin diseases, influenza, whooping cough, flatulent dyspepsia associated with nervous tension, gastric infections in children, and fungal infections (such as Candida). Externally for wounds, insect bites, ulcers, sore throat, vaginal and oral yeast. Combines well with Gnaphalium uliginosum (See, Marsh Cudweed) for nasal mucus.

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