This isn't a fool's gold, this is Goldenrod (solidago virgaurea) and it is herbal gold. Used as a valuable remedy for urethritis, nephritis cystitis, and other ailments of the urinary tract. There are other Solidago species used medicinally, including: S. canadensis and S. odora. These species of Goldenrod are highly prized for their ability to treat seasonal allergies, chest pain, colds, and fevers. Additionally, they were listed as a stimulant, carminative, and diaphoretic, among other key actions listed below, in the US Pharmacopoeia.
History & Folklore
An herbalist, John Gerard (1597), dryly commented "goldenrod has in times past been had in greater estimation and regard than in these days: for within my remembrance, I have known the dry herb which came from beyond the seas, sold ... for half a crown an ounce. But since it was found in Hampstead wood ... no man will give half a cron for an hundredweight of it: which plainly setteth forth our inconstancy and sudden mutability, esteeming no longer of any thing (how precious soever it may be) than whilst it is strange and rare."
Habitat & Cultivation
Goldenrod is an perennial plant; which can grow over 2 feet high. It has a central, erect stem which branches off with toothed leaves topped with bunches of golden-yellow flowers. It is Native to Europe and Asia, where it prefers to grow in open spaces and hillsides. Today, it has been naturalized in North America. It is harvested in summer while it is flowering.
Uses
Urinary Tract Disorders with antioxidant and diuretic properties, it can clean out waste
Cleansing Properties antioxidant and diuretic, it has earned a reputation for flushing out kidney and bladder stones
Antibacterial saponins in goldenrod act against fungus that cause vaginal yeast infections and oral thrush
Other Uses To treat nephritis, cystitis, and gastroenteritis in children; to use as a mouthwash or douche for thrush
Parts used
Aerial Parts (fresh or dried) for external and internal use
Key Actions
Anti-fungal
Antioxidant
Diuretic
Astringent
Stimulant
Carminative
Constituents
Saponins
Diterpenes
Phenolic glucosides
Acetylenes
Cinnamates
Flavonoids
Tannins
Hydroxybenzoates
Inulin
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 271.
No Remedies found containing Goldenrod
No Products Found For Goldenrod
No reviews found for Goldenrod
Help others by leaving a review
Share your experience with this herb to help other people