Golden rod which is also known as the Solidago Canadensis is the botanical plant of daisy family. The essential oil is extracted from the goldenrod flowers by the process of steam distillation. It has been used for medication purposes. The term Solidago was derived from the Latin term solidare which means to make whole. The plant has leaves in alternated form with the golden flowers on the top which grows from 2 to 3 feet high.
It works wonder for skin care and urinary tract infections. This plant is an inherent to Canada, USA and Mexico but some species is an inherent to the parts of Europe. Goldenrod has anti-inflammatory, carminative, antifungal, diuretic and expectorant properties which serve as cure benefits. The goldenrod serves as a tonic for kidney and cures bacterial inflammation.
Health benefits of Goldenrod Essential Oil
The various health benefits which the Goldenrod essential oil provides are:
1. For the bladder and urinary tract infections
The German commission proved that the goldenrod can treat the bladder and urinary tract infections. It stimulates the frequency and production of urine. Due to astringent and antiseptic properties, it tones up the urinary tract. The kidneys are nourished as it acts as a tonic for kidneys.
2. Good for skin
The inflammatory conditions such as acne and eczema can be treated by applying the mixture of goldenrod essential oil and carrier oils like sweet almond or coconut. It tightens and cleanses the skin with its astringent and antiseptic properties. It helps to look younger and fresh.
3. For respiratory issues
It relieves congestion which is caused by the cold or blocked sinuses if inhaled. It helps to breathe easily by loosening the buildup mucus. It has been used by the Native Americans to treat sore throats and respiratory problems.
4. For seasonal allergies
It can cure the symptoms of hay fever effectively. It can cure the conditions like runny rose, stop to sneezing and watering eyes.
5. For arthritis and gout
The mixture of goldenrod and carrier oil should be massaged to the affected areas which help to relieve from the inflammatory joint conditions such as arthritis and gout. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps to comfort the aching muscles.
6. For oral hygiene
The Native Americans chewed the leaves of this plant to comfort toothache pain. In a glass of water, add few drops of goldenrod essential oil and gargle with this mixture for two times a day. It should not be swallowed.
7. For minor wounds
It applied to insect bites, burns, minor wounds in order to prevent from the infection but it should not be applied to the severe open wound. It also helps to lessen the inflammation.
8. Decongestant
If goldenrod essential oil is inhaled, then it helps to clear the mucus and nasal congestion due to the presence of anti-allergic properties.
9. For fungal infections
Due to its antifungal properties, it can be used to treat candida, jock itch, athlete’s foot and toenail fungus.
10. For emotional calm
In order to relieve stress, goldenrod essential should be applied a little to the neck, shoulders and bottoms of the feet or diffuse goldenrod essential oil. The oil if diffused provides calm and uplifting effect to the mind and also removes the nasty odors which is caused due to tobacco, environmental pollutants and cooking.
11. Treating Impotency
University of Montreal proved that the goldenrod essential oil can treat impotency.
12. Liver cleanser
It stimulates the liver and improves digestion. It also detoxifies and cleanses the liver.
13. Improves cardiovascular health
The consumption of cardiovascular health in small doses improves the cardiovascular system. It helps to eliminate the heart ailments.
14. Treats Insomnia
The goldenrod essential oil if rubbed on the base of the feet helps to feel relax. It provides a better sleep which helps to treat insomnia.
History of Goldenrod Essential Oil
Goldenrod plant was originated in the Northeastern and North central parts of North America. It is a perennial herbaceous plant. It is also named as Solidago Canadensis. As its growth is strictly controlled, it is grown as ornamental plants. It can develop in any conditions as it grows in uncultivated lands and meadows as well. Medicinal benefits can be found in the aerial parts of plant. It is used to cure the diseases related to cardiovascular, digestive, kidneys and gastrointestinal systems. It is vastly used to cure allergies, skin disorders and urinary track diseases. It can be found in the form of tincture, poultice, tea, essential oil and powder.
How to use goldenrod essential oil
The goldenrod essential oil can be used in variety of ways:
- The goldenrod essential oil can be inhaled to treat respiratory conditions or allergies. The inhalation can be done by directly from the bottle or breathing in its fumes or putting few drops in handkerchief. A few drops can be added to the palm of hands and cup them over the nose.
- Excess build up mucus can be cleared by adding 5 drops of goldenrod oil to a sink full of hot water and breathing the vapors by covering the upper torso and head with a towel.
- Massage the aching joints and muscles with the mixture of goldenrod essential oil and good quality base oil such as sweet almond, jojoba, coconut and avocado oil. This massage can provide a relax experience.
- A few drops if added alone or with other oil to a diffuser then it provide calm and supports general wellbeing and mental clarity.
Dosage of Goldenrod Essential Oil
The proper dosage of goldenrod essential oil has not been determined yet. It should not be use undiluted because it is very strong that it may burn the skin. The dilution ratio must be 1:1 before applying to the skin. It blends well with rose, ylang ylang, bergamot, juniper, lavender, lavandin, clary sage, orange and rosemary.
Side effects of Goldenrod Essential Oil
The goldenrod essential oil may irritate the sensitive skin though it is non-toxic, non-sensitizing and non-irritating. It may be too strong for the infants and children so it should not be used for below 5 years old. Those who are pregnant should take the supervision of gynecologist or general practitioner.
The goldenrod essential oil enhances the general health and brightens the skin. 100% pure goldenrod essential oil should be used to receive maximum benefits.
