Botanical Names
- Family Asteraceae (formerly Compositae)
- Solidago canadensis
- Solidago virgaurea
Common Names
- Golden Rod, Aaron’s Rod, Woundwort, Blue Mountain Tea
Cautions
- Care must be taken in using the herb by those with cardiac or renal insufficiencies.
Description
Goldenrod is one of 125 species, all of which are found in the Americas with the exception of several found in Asia and a smaller number that have adapted to the cooler climate of Europe. It is a perennial plant, growing to about thirty inches with toothed leaves and branched spikes of golden yellow flowers. It prefers open areas and hillsides. The European species are not as potent, but still are used almost exclusively there because of its availability. The aerial parts are collected during the flowering season.
History
The herbalist, John Gerard, wrote in 1597 that the herb was the best one to be used to stop the bleeding of wounds.
Native Americans have long used the herb in treating urinary calculi. The Chippewa chewed the dried roots to relieve sore throats, while the Zuni chewed the crushed blossoms for the same reason. The Chippewa drank a decoction made from the roots to treat lung problems. It was used by the Thompson, Okanagan, and other tribes to treat diarrhea. Poultices made from the flowers have been used to treat burns and skin ulcers. The Chippewa applied warm compresses made by boiling the stalk or root to treat sprains or strained muscles.
Key Actions
- antioxidant
- astringent
- antifungal
- diuretic
Key Components
- acetylenes
- cinnamates
- diterpenes
- flavonoids
- hydroxybenzoates
- inulin
- phenolic glucosides
- saponins
- tannins
Medicinal Parts
- Aerial parts
- The saponins have antifungal activity and act specifically against the Candida fungus.
- There are several species on the market today that are used interchangeably with each other, despite each having differences in action.
Traditional Uses
The herb is valued in treating various urinary tract disorders and used both for such serious ailments as nephritis or for such common complaints as cystitis. It has also reputedly been used to break down and flush out kidney and bladder stones.
It is also used for sore throats, chronic nasal congestion, and diarrhea.
Because of its mild action, the herb is appropriate for treating gastroenteritis in children. It has an agreeable effect on the stomach and intestines; and, since it is slightly aromatic, it stimulates gastric activity.
As a douche, it is effective in treating vaginal yeast infections.
The leaves are used to decrease flatulence, promote perspiration, and increase urine production.
Herbal and homeopathic preparations have been successfully used in the treatment of hayfever and other allergies. Since the plant contains much pollen, normally thought of as an allergen, it does not have the same effect on hayfever sufferers, even when in close proximity to the plant.