Goldenrod Medicinal Uses

Goldenrod Medicinal Uses are extensive and this medicinal plant has been traditionally used both internally and topically, by Native American peoples. Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea) also known as True Goldenrod, is a perennial medicinal herb.

Goldenrod Medicinal Uses Overview

• Goldenrod has a history for use with the bladder and urinary system. The astringent and antiseptic qualities tighten and tone the urinary system and bladder making it useful for UTI infections.
• Classed as an astringent herb and a strong decongestant, Goldenrod can help to dry up congestion caused by colds, flu, allergies and sinus problems. It contains a flavonoid called quercetin which acts as an antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant.
• It is also used for gout, joint pain (rheumatism), arthritis, as well as eczema and other skin conditions.
• Goldenrod is also used to treat tuberculosis infections that have become active again after a period of inactivity (latency), diabetes, enlargement of the liver, hemorrhoids, internal bleeding, and an enlarged prostate.
• Goldenrod is used as a mouth rinse for inflammation of the mouth and throat, and it is also applied directly to the skin to improve wound healing.

Caution: Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers.

Goldenrod Herbal Preparations and Uses

Parts Used: The aerial part of the plant is used and is harvested late summer into early autumn, before the flowers are in full bloom.

• Tea
• Tincture
• Infused oils
• Poultice
• Powder

Goldenrod Herbal Recipes

Goldenrod Tea

Use around 2 tablespoons of fresh flowers per 1 cup of water. If using dried flowers, use half as much (1 tablespoon per 1 cup of water). Cover and steep for 15 to 20 minutes before straining. Sweeten with raw honey, if desired.

Goldenrod Tincture
Use the fresh or dried flowers and leaf to make a goldenrod tincture.

Ingredients:

• 1 wide mouth jar with lid
• 1 amber large bottle for storing your completed tincture
• Tincture bottle with dropper
• Dried goldenrod or fresh goldenrod flowers, buds and leaf.
• 80-100 proof vodka or apple cider vinegar

Fill  the jar half way with dried goldenrod or 2/3 of the way with chopped fresh goldenrod.Pour the alcohol or apple cider vinegar over the herbs.  Completely fill the jar and seal with a lid. Shake well. Label and date your jar. Store your jar in a warm spot, out of direct sunlight for 4-6 weeks. Shake your jar often, every day if possible. After 4-6 weeks, strain off the herbs and discard.  Fill a small tincture bottle (with a dropper) for daily use and pour the remainder in a clean glass jar. Label and date your bottle and jar.  Store in a cool, dark place where it will keep for several years.