Medicinal plant

Goldenrod

Solidago spp.

For a runny head cold and sluggish kidneys, not for hay fever.

An astringent traditionally used for runny, boggy tissues and upper-respiratory secretions, and a diuretic/urinary trophorestorative with a long history of European and North American use for urinary tract support. Also anti-inflammatory and vulnerary when used topically for sore muscles and minor skin complaints, and an expectorant for loosening respiratory mucus.

It does not cause hay fever — the ragweed growing beside it does.

Properties

Diuretic — Encourages urination and fluid elimination

Astringent — Tightens and tones tissues; often drying

Anticatarrhal — Helps reduce or clear excess mucus and congestion

Energetics
Warming Drying Toning
Take care People sensitive to the Asteraceae/daisy family may react to goldenrod.
Take care Because this guide groups multiple Solidago species, confirm the species before making a concentrated internal preparation.
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.), historical botanical illustration

Growing and using it

Life cycle

Herbaceous perennial.

What to buy

Straight-species Canada goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) seed or plug for the generalized goldenrod entry.

Best way to start

Plug or seed.

Seed starting

Surface sow; fall/winter sowing or cold-moist stratification improves germination for many Solidago species.