There are mainly three different types of golden rod or golden rue (Solidago) that are widespread here, but they are quite similar in terms of their use. Regardless of whether it is the Canadian goldenrod (Solidago canadensis), the giant goldenrod (Solidago serotina) or the common goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), all species are non-toxic to humans and animals. In addition, the plants have a long tradition as medicinal plants.
The goldenrod is not poisonous, but is even used as a medicinal plant
Attention allergy sufferers
Basically, the goldenrod is non-toxic to humans and animals - with the exception of horses and cattle, which is why the plants must never be found in a pasture - but can trigger allergies in sensitive people. Contact eczema, for example, which can occur as a result of contact with plant sap, is common. On the other hand, gloves that are worn when cutting and handling the goldenrod help. Plant pollen is also considered a trigger for hay fever.
Goldenrod as a medicinal plant
Traditionally, goldenrod is used to treat wounds, but also for various kidney and bladder diseases, rheumatism, gout, and intestinal and skin diseases. Already the Germanic peoples collected, dried and used the flowering shoot tips for medicinal purposes. The best collection time is July and August, the harvest should be hung to dry in a warm, dark and airy place.
Components of goldenrod
All three goldenrod species have similar ingredients. In addition to essential oil and saponins, they contain phenolic glycosides, flavonoids, diterpenes, chlorogenic acid, rutoside, querecitin and polysaccharides. When collecting, you should avoid confusion with the very similar but poisonous Fuchs' groundsel.
tips
People who are allergic to bees should also carefully consider planting goldenrod. The profusely flowering perennial is a much frequented forage pasture for bees, butterflies and other insects. At the very least, the plants should not be planted in heavily used/treaded locations.