'Tis the season for Golden rod. It is scattered throughout North Carolina. I was also amazed at its prolific presence in Massachusetts as well. In the heat of the last full month of summer, golden rod (often confused with ragweed) reflects the suns rays and warmth.

Golden rods Latin name is: Solidago virgaurea Another species Solidago canadensis can also be found here in North America.

Solidago offers its medicine in its dried above ground parts collected during flowering. It is a strong diuretic and is used to treat kidney and bladder infections. A tea can be made using 2-3 grams of the dried herb, steeped in hot water. For its diuretic properties, one can drink it 3-5 times a day. Goldenrod has also been used in cough medicines and antirheumatic preparations.

Its active ingredients include a mixture of flavonoids, phenolic glycosides, a volatile oil (with mostly monoterpenes), organic acids and polysaccharides.

Suzanne Catty has written about its properties as a hydrosol. She recommends it for its strong diuretic properties and says taken internally it may aid the treatment and prevention of kidney stones. Topically, it can be used as a compress for fluid retention and uric acid in the joints and tissues. The hydrosol of goldenrod is also a strong anti-inflammatory and moderate antispasmodic for sore muscles, stiff neck, tendonitis, and repetitive strain injuries. On an energetic note: she comments that goldenrod carries the intense vibrations of heat and the sun, opens the solar plexus and diaphram, bringing a state of calm. (Hydrosols: The next aromatherapy).

According to Catty, the internal use of the hydrosol should be avoided by those with extremely low blood pressure.