As the seasons change, many people find themselves struggling with seasonal allergies. Often mistaken for ragweed, goldenrod is a powerful ally in combating these pesky symptoms. This talk about some of the benefits of goldenrod, how to create your own goldenrod infused honey, and why it's a great addition to your herbal remedies.
Understanding Goldenrod
Goldenrod, known scientifically as Solidago, is a flowering plant that is in the Asteraceae family and it blooms in late summer and early fall. It is often found in fields and along roadsides, but it is best to stay away from harvesting plants right from the roadside... as tempting as it may be! Look for a cleaner place to harvest this lovely golden flowering plant to get the best herbal medicine without the toxins from vehicles.
While many people associate goldenrod with seasonal allergies, it is actually ragweed that is responsible for these symptoms. They may appear to be similar from a far, but the leaves are a great way to tell them apart!
Goldenrod is not only beautiful but it also offers various medicinal properties. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent qualities, making it a versatile herb for treating a variety of ailments. The flowers, leaves, and stems of goldenrod can be harvested and used in various ways from teas, tinctures, salves, and my personal favorite- infused honey. This rich honey is my secret for avoiding seasonal allergies!
The Benefits of Goldenrod for Allergies
Goldenrod is particularly effective for seasonal allergies. It works by:
- Reducing Inflammation: Goldenrod helps calm inflamed tissues, which can relieve symptoms such as a scratchy throat or sinus pressure.
- Thinning Mucus: It assists in thinning mucus, making it easier to expel and relieving congestion.
- Providing Antimicrobial Properties: Goldenrod contains compounds that can help fight infections and support immune health.
Harvesting Goldenrod
When harvesting goldenrod, it's essential to gather the aerial parts, which include the leaves, stems, and flowers on a dry day when the plants are free from any extra moisture. It is important to be mindful of the environment and only take what you need, as goldenrod is a vital nectar and pollen source for bees during this time of year. In fact, it is one of the last sources of food before winter for our pollinator friends!
Once harvested, you can use goldenrod in various forms, including teas, tinctures, and salves. However, one of the most delightful ways to utilize this herb is by infusing it in honey.
How to Make Goldenrod Infused Honey
Infusing honey with goldenrod is a simple process that captures the herb's medicinal properties while creating a delicious remedy. Here's how to do it:
Ingredients
- Aerial parts of goldenrod (leaves, stems, and flowers)
- Raw honey
Instructions
- Begin by washing the harvested goldenrod to remove any dirt or insects.
- Allow the goldenrod to dry completely. This step is crucial to prevent fermentation.
- Fill a clean mason jar with the dried goldenrod, packing it lightly to allow space for the honey.
- Pour raw honey over the goldenrod until it is fully submerged. Use a chopstick or butter knife to gently stir and remove any air bubbles.
- Seal the jar and place it in a warm, dark location for 4 to 6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days to help the infusion process.
- After the infusion period, strain the honey through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the plant material.
- Store the infused honey in a clean jar, labeling it with the date and contents.
Using Goldenrod Infused Honey
Once your goldenrod infused honey is ready, you can use it in various ways:
- Add a spoonful to your tea for a soothing drink.
- Take a spoonful daily as a natural remedy for allergies.
- Use it as a sweetener in recipes to enjoy the health benefits of both honey and goldenrod.
Why Use Raw Honey?
When making infused honey, it's crucial to use raw honey. Raw honey retains its natural enzymes, antioxidants, and nutrients, which are often lost during processing. It also has antimicrobial properties that complement the benefits of goldenrod.
Combining Goldenrod with Other Remedies
For those looking to enhance their herbal medicine cabinet, goldenrod can be combined with other remedies. For instance, you can create a tincture using alcohol and combine it with your goldenrod honey for a more potent effect. Additionally, goldenrod pairs well with other herbs, such as nettles in allergy formulas.
To watch how to make Goldenrod infused Honey : Click Here
Precautions and Considerations
While goldenrod is generally safe for most people, it's essential to consider a few precautions:
- If you are allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family, you should avoid using goldenrod.
- Consult with a healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.