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HARVESTING & USING GOLDENROD
Solidago virgaurea is the botanical name for goldenrod. This adaptable plant can be found in Asia, North America & Europe. Found in areas with good sun exposure, goldenrod will reach a height of 2-3 feet in open areas, mountain ranges and along hillsides. The leaves alternate along the stem which is accented with branches of golden flowers.
In the late summer and fall, this plant blooms and is ready to harvest. If goldenrod grows in your area, the feathery yellow blossoms are easy to spot in patches beside the road. However, you won’t want to use these plants because they’ve been coated in fumes from passing cars.
The choice places to locate goldenrod are those with good sun exposure, near water. We were able to locate a patch growing near an abandoned footbridge in an open area. The little patch was filled with pokeweed, leggy grasses and splashes of goldenrod. Use sharp garden shears to harvest, removing the 2 or 3 feet of stem, leaves and blooming tops. The bruised parts of the plant will offer up a pleasant smell similar to wild carrots with a hint of citrus. A yellow dye can be made from the flower tops.
HOW TO DRY HERBS
Use a string to tie the cut stems in groups of five to ten. Make a loop in the tail of the string in order that you may hang the plants with the flowers downward and a box lid or tray beneath. Find a place to hang the plants where they will not be disturbed: a closet, cabinet, storage room, ceiling beam. Hooks and coat racks can also be used. If it fits, a paper bag can be secured over the plants to shield them from sun and catch loose plant parts. In one to three weeks the plants will be dry. This method is also effective for preserving flower arrangements.
When the plants are dried, remove the blooms and leaves to store them in a glass jar with a lid.
As an herb, goldenrod has qualities that make it symptom regulating, regenerating and detoxifying.
DETOXIFYING HERBS clear blockages and remove excesses. Known as a bitter, goldenrod contains tannin. Bitters are herbs that trigger the secretion of digestive juices by their taste. Because it helps the body release excess fluids, this herb is known as a diuretic. In times past this herb was used in applications to assist in the removal of bladder stones. Goldenrod helps remove hardened mucus and thick phlegm deposits (catarrh). Urinary tract infections are also eased by the antioxidant properties of goldenrod tea. Goldenrod is a digestive which means it strengthens digestion. A diaphoretic, this herb promotes perspiration which helps the body remove toxins.
REGENERATING HERBS help restore normal function, tone and build overwhelmed tissues. Inflamed tissues are eased with the application of goldenrod as it is an astringent. An aromatic, the volatile oils in the goldenrod give it a pleasant odor. As a powder, this herb is used to help wounds close and form scar tissue, a process known as cicatrization. Ulcers were once commonly treated in this manner. Goldenrod’s support of healing tissues classifies it as a vulnerary.
SYMPTOM REGULATING HERBS are plants which help relieve discomfort and pain. The antiseptic properties of this herb help counteract decay. Tea made from the leaves and flowers can be used as a mouthwash. Its stimulant properties increase the action of other herbs in remedies. Stomach pain is relieved by the carminative action of goldenseal which helps remove gas from the digestive tract. To reduce fevers, goldenseal tea is helpful. Pain associated with menstruation is also lessened by drinking goldenseal tea.
TO MAKE GOLDENSEAL TEA
Measure 2 tsp of dried herb into a cup. Add boiling water to the container and cover, letting it steep for ten minutes. Enjoy a cup of the tea three times each day until the symptoms lessen. Taken in quantities of ½ cup four times per day, this tea is reported to be helpful in the treatment seasonal allergies. Yet, if I felt it beneficial, I would consume it more liberally.
SINUS WASH
The tea is also good as a sinus spray. This is an effective treatment for upper respiratory inflammation and congestion accompanied by a sore throat and low fever.
SALVES & OILS
When goldenrod is infused in oil, it is a soothing topical treatment for sore muscles, strains and sprains. This oil can be applied repeatedly and liberally as frequently as every half hour, but usually every three hours. Even chronic pain and stiffness has been alleviated with this application. This does not correct serious structural damage; rather it helps with painful and inflamed tissues. Goldenrod’s vulnerary properties make this a good choice for the treatment of cuts, scratches and wounds as it speeds healing.
A tincture of goldenrod can be used to help alleviate allergy symptoms. In tincture combinations, goldenrod will help to increase the beneficial properties of other herbs. While the individual response and underlying conditions must be considered, a tincture of goldenrod, nettle and elderberry is considered a good combination for allergy relief. Another tincture combination that is useful in the treatment of kidney and urinary tract infections is goldenrod, echinacea, yarrow and elderberry. One dropperful should be taken hourly until symptoms ease. After the symptoms lessen, continue taking several drops 3-4 times a day for around 10 days. A ten day trial period is the same time used in Scripture to establish good health.* Another application for tinctures can be topical as a liniment.
Subsequent articles will deal with the procedures for making your own tinctures, oils and salves. Meanwhile, if you’d like a great resource for introductory herbal information and applications (and a great read), I suggest you purchase the latest book by herbalist Debi Pearl entitled THE VISION. In addition to herbal tips on the everyday use of herbs, you’ll enjoy an exciting story of adventure, romance and intrigue. Buy it today.
*The phrase “ten days” makes for an interesting word study in Scripture.
Information and ideas presented here are for the reader’s use and enrichment. This is not offered as a replacement for the care of a medical professional. The ideas and opinions expressed are that of the author and fallible. It is the responsibility of the reader to arrive at his own conclusions and be informed.
