Downy Golden Rod, Solidago puberula
Solidago puberula
Downy Golden Rod
Asteraceae
History and Origin
There are numerous species of this plant, over a hundred. These grow in a wide variety of environments, characterizing the landscape of St. Lawrence Valley and North America in general. Golden rod easily spreads owing to its prolific downy fruits (between 15 000 and 20 000 by plant). Once planted, golden rod finds its way with its rhizomes.
They are often considered as a weed plant, and numerous measures are taken to eradicate it.
Golden rod species are abundantly used by Native people. Its therapeutic properties are numerous. To name only a few, the plant is used as a liver stimulant, antipyretic and antidiarrheal. The Meskwaki people would also use it in children having difficulty starting to speak or unable to laugh.
| pH |
4.1-4.3 |
| Aroma and Taste |
Very fruity. The aroma and taste of this hydrosol are exceptional. Highly complex and delicious, the flavor reveals different aspects when consumed alone or in combinations with other liquids. In certain combinations, it brings a gentle peach flavor. |
| Stability and Shelf Life |
Very stable. Very few problems, and normally lasts two years without much degradation, although the taste is slightly better in the first year. |
| Properties and Applications |
Golden rod is a strong diuretic, and taken internally it may aid the treatment and prevention of kidney stones and is cleansing to the entire hepatorenal system without having the “squeezing” effects of juniper berry or cypress. Although not a digestive per se, it can stem diarrhea, depending on the cause, and is very useful for treating stress – or diet – associated “runs” in both people and animals. Topically, use it as a compress for fluid retention and uric acid in joints and tissue or add it to the bath for soothing rheumatic and arthritic pain. This hydrosol is a strong anti-inflammatory and moderate antispasmodic for sore muscles, stiff neck, tendonitis, and repetitive strain injuries. It can also prevent inflammation if used as a friction rub before or after a workout or physical labor.
The oil is known for its cardiotonic properties, which seem to be present to a slightly lesser degree in the water. Goldenrod hydrosol lowers blood pressure in both the hypertensive and the hypotensive. Those with extremely low blood pressure should avoid internal use. Applied topically, goldenrod reduces swelling in thread varicose veins and broken capillaries.
Remarkable energetic for such a common weed, goldenrod carries the intense vibrations of heat and sun; it opens the solar plexus and diaphragm, bringing calm. It is wonderful in energetic healing for the emotions and the heart and for helping release old anger. |
Safety Data
AVOID internal use in cases of hypotension and consult with your health practitioner before internal use if you suffer from liver, kidney, or heart disease.
References
Hydrosols, The Next Aromatherapy (Suzanne Catty), La Flore Laurentienne, Native American Ethnobotany and the personal notes of Lucie Mainguy.
Discharge
Aliksir strongly recommends that you consult with a physician or aromatherapist. It is important to inform yourself concerning contraindications or incompatibilities with other substances. Hydrosols are powerful, and they must be used according to the physiological doses.