GOLDENROD
Solidago virgaurea
Common name: Goldenrod
Latin name: Solidago virgaurea
Other names: Woundwort
Family: Asteraceae
Habitat: Goldenrod is native to Europe. It can be found along roadsides and in open fields.
Description: European goldenrod is a perennial plant. It has single, woody stem, growing to a height of 2 meters. Leaves are alternate, clear green, toothed or with fine edges. Flowers are arranged in dense clusters, and are yellow in color. The plant is in bloom during August and September.
Parts used: Aerial parts
Useful components: Volatile oil, sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, tannins, sugars, resins, vitamin C
Medicinal use: Goldenrod mainly acts as a diuretic and anti-inflammatory agent. Traditionally, it has most commonly been used topically for wound healing. It was the remedy for various ailments, such as arthritis, asthma, tuberculosis, colds and flu, diabetes, enlargement of the liver, gout, hemorrhoids, internal bleeding, inflammations of the mouth and throat etc. Now, Goldenrod is usually recommended for different inflammations of the urinary system, kidney stones, allergies, arthritis, and topically for treatment of eczema and minor wounds.
Safety: Goldenrod could sometimes cause allergic reactions. Some herbs could react with certain medication. Therefore it is highly advisable to contact your doctor/herbalist before consumption of any herb.