Goldenrod

As one of the last wild herbs of the season, I thought I show one of the most unappreciated herbs out there. Many confuse this plant with the bane of their autumn season: allergies. But what they don't realize is that it's the ragweed, not this pretty and useful plant. This is the autumn beauty, the Goldenrod.

Solidago canadensis (Canadian Goldenrod) is one of the most common plant that you'll find. It grows just about anywhere you can think of. From roadsides to swamps to fields.

Goldenrod is a strange mix. While the plant itself is haemostatic (causes blood to clot) the seeds are an anticoagulant (slows the clotting effects of blood). The root is used as a poultice for burns and the blossoms are used as a fever reducer, cure for sore throats, an astringent and also for diarrhea. It's also gentle enough for children to use. It also has compounds that help treat nephritis (inflammation of the nephrons in the kidneys), urinary tract disorder, and cystitis (inflammation of the bladder). The saponins in the plant also target the Candida fungus (usually found in thrushes of the oral or vaginal cavities). As an added bonus, it can help treat skin diseases and also whooping cough and colds and flu. Not bad for a backwater weed, huh?

But how about some potpourri or decor? Once dried or even fresh, goldenrod is excellent for floral arrangements, garlands and even wreaths. Don't be afraid to invite it into your home.

Enjoy the fall but don't fall prey to it. Enjoy the color and the scent of goldenrod and all the other late bloomers. It's just wonderful seeing fields of these fall flowers with a back drop of colorful trees!