Content
- 1 Description of Canadian goldenrod
- 2 The value of Canadian goldenrod as a honey plant
- 3 Value and chemical composition of Canadian goldenrod
- 4 Beneficial properties of Canadian goldenrod
- 5 The use of Canadian goldenrod in folk medicine
- 6 Application in landscape design
- 7 Features of reproduction
- 8 Planting and care
- 9 Interesting facts about Canadian goldenrod
- 10 Conclusion
Canadian goldenrod is easy to grow in your garden. It is very useful from a medical point of view and can help with many diseases. But for environmental services it is a malicious weed that must be destroyed.
Description of Canadian goldenrod
The Latin name of the plant is Solidago canadensis. In Russian, a tracing-paper from Latin is also found as a name: solidago canadian.
A herbaceous perennial plant with a height of 50 cm to 2 m. The stems are straight, erect, and do not branch. Goldenrod shoots are densely covered with narrow lanceolate leaves arranged alternately. The leaf blades are pubescent on the underside and “naked” on the top. The edges are jagged. The root system develops horizontally.
The inflorescences are formed at the tops of the stems and have a pyramidal shape. Since there are several of them, together they form a wide panicle. The color of the flower petals is yellow.
The fruits of Solidago canadensis are cylindrical achenes. For better distribution, they are “equipped” with a tuft of bristles. Thanks to this device, the wind picks up the seeds and carries them far from the mother plant.
Some species of the Goldenrod genus have been introduced into cultivation and are now grown in gardens. Canadian served as the parent form for many varieties. Moreover, many of them are much more convenient for growing in a flower bed, since their maximum height is much lower than 2 m.
The variety Solidago Canadian Patio is the most convenient for gardeners, as it does not grow higher than 60 cm. But it retains all the properties of its wild ancestor. Hybrids can grow up to 1.5 m, which is not very convenient when caring for a flower bed. And some of them are also very whimsical: Arends goldenrod can only be grown in protected ground.
There are more than 80 species of goldenrod in the world, but only the Canadian one served as the parent form for many varieties
Where and how does it grow
The natural distribution area of Canadian goldenrod is the east of the North American continent. As a dangerous invasive weed, the plant has already spread throughout the non-tropical zone of the Northern Hemisphere.
Under natural conditions, Canadian goldenrod prefers to grow along roads and in populated areas. In central Russia, the plant has managed to naturalize and is already found everywhere in a wild state.
Features of flowering
The plus, and also the minus for allergy sufferers, of Canadian goldenrod is that its flowering time is July-September. Most plants will already bear fruit by this time. The exact timing of flowering depends on the region and the weather in the spring. The colder it is, the later goldenrod will bloom. But this applies to all plants.
The seeds ripen in August-October. If seeds are needed for subsequent propagation, this moment should not be missed. The achenes are easily separated from the bed and take off on their own.
Canadian goldenrod - poisonous plant or not
Yes, goldenrod is poisonous. Its root system is especially dangerous. The release of poison into the soil is the basis for the success of the Canadian goldenrod in capturing new areas. It kills everything from bacteria and fungi to other flora.
For humans, preparations from Solidago canadensis can also be dangerous if used uncontrollably. Before using this traditional medicine, you should consult your doctor.
The value of Canadian goldenrod as a honey plant
From the point of view of the quantity of products obtained, Canadian goldenrod is a medium-level honey plant. But its advantage is that it begins to flower at a time when most other plants have already formed fruits. If there was little harvest during the season, the bees can get honey from the Canadian variety of goldenrod.
Honey productivity of Canadian goldenrod
The plant can produce 100-150 kg per hectare. But this is only if there are favorable conditions. The combination of factors that allows you to get the most out of a Canadian species is relatively rare. Therefore, you should count on bribes of less than 100 kg.
Honey collected by bees on the Canadian variety of goldenrod is suitable for those for whom other types are contraindicated
Value and chemical composition of Canadian goldenrod
In the Leningrad region, research was carried out on Canadian goldenrod to identify its value for medicinal purposes. Along the way, it turned out that the plant is not afraid of low temperatures, but it really loves high humidity. During the year of research, the weather was cool and rainy.
Soil samples and goldenrod leaves were collected for the study. The “standard” part of the chemical composition of the herb solidago canada:
- flavonols;
- alkaloids;
- carbohydrates;
- polysaccharides;
- hydroxycinnamic acids;
- lipophilic substances;
- triterpene saponins.
Diterpenoids are present in the roots. Among microelements – a significant amount of silicon.
The “non-standard” part of the chemical composition refers to the elements present in the soil in which goldenrod grows. It is able to draw these substances from the soil and accumulate them in the aboveground part. Particularly dangerous in this regard is the high copper content in the leaves of the plant.Research in the Leningrad region has shown that Canadian goldenrod is capable of accumulating these substances. The ratio of the amount of microelement to the permissible concentration in the plant is higher than in the soil.
The chemical composition of plants directly depends on the presence of microelements in the soil
Beneficial properties of Canadian goldenrod
In traditional medicine, Solidago canadiana herb is used as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and diuretic. It is also used for hypoazototemia - a high concentration of nitrogen-containing products in the blood. The plant is used in complex preparations:
- Prostanorm (Russia, for the treatment of prostatitis);
- Marelin (Ukraine, antispasmodic, diuretic and anti-inflammatory);
- Phytolysin (Poland, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic).
Canadian and common goldenrods are used for the same diseases:
- urinary system;
- kidney stones;
- prostatitis;
- skin;
- joint problems;
- bruises and open wounds;
- to improve immunity;
- with severe diarrhea or vomiting;
- some heart diseases;
- for any diseases that cause an increase in the level of uric acid in the body;
- in case of reduced natural urea excretion, which is caused by metabolic diseases.
The secretion of urea is also reduced in cases of blood cancer and alcohol abuse.
But although the Canadian and common goldenrod have the same scope of application, their photos and descriptions are different. This matters because the effect of the former is stronger. It is also undesirable to confuse the plants because you can already get a fine for growing the Canadian variety in Belarus.
The use of Canadian goldenrod in folk medicine
The use of the Canadian species of goldenrod in folk medicine is almost the same as in traditional medicine. But here it is also credited with some “magical” properties and is used not in combination, but as a separate remedy. For this, decoctions and infusions are prepared. Sometimes added to tea.
Recipes for decoctions and infusions
The concentration of decoctions and infusions prepared from the Canadian species Solidago is the same. Only the volume of fluid required to treat diseases varies. There is no point in describing separately the method of preparation of drugs. Two recipes are enough: decoction and infusion. Next, for each disease you will only need to adjust the volume.
Decoction
A tablespoon of goldenrod is poured into a glass of boiling water and heated in a water bath for 5-10 minutes. Leave for three hours and filter through cheesecloth.
Infusion
A tablespoon. pour a glass of boiling water, close the container and leave until cool. Strain and use according to indications.
Tea
The same decoctions and infusions from Canadian solidago, but in a much lower concentration: two teaspoons per two glasses of water.
There are two brewing methods:
- pour cold water over the grass, turn it off immediately after boiling and leave for two minutes;
- the raw materials are poured with boiling water and left for ten minutes.
Tea is drunk not for treatment, but for the prevention of diseases.
Honey
A self-sufficient product collected by bees from the flowers of Canadian goldenrod. There is no need to prepare it specially, but you can mix it with other products, increasing the effectiveness of honey.
Rules for reception and use
Solidago canadian preparations are taken half an hour before meals. The frequency and volume depend on the specific disease. But before you start taking herbs, you should definitely consult your doctor.Goldenrod may not be compatible with medications already prescribed. In addition, the plant is slightly poisonous, and an overdose can cause poisoning.
The required volume of liquid is prepared based on the shelf life and type of disease. In some cases, it is easier to buy a ready-made drug, which is produced in the form of a liquid extract, tablets or paste.
Phytolysin is not an ointment, but a paste from which you can independently prepare a suspension for internal use.
For diseases of the genitourinary system
For diseases of the genitourinary system, the decoction is consumed four times a day, ½ cup. The duration of the course must be indicated by the doctor.
Honey is also used to normalize the functioning of the bladder. This is more of a preventive measure, but can also be used in case of illness. A teaspoon of honey is dissolved in 125 ml of water. Take 60-65 ml twice a day.
The second recipe does not contain exact data, except for the amount of honey. 100 g are mixed with lemon juice and rosehip infusion. Take before meals.
For kidney stones
For kidney stones, a decoction is recommended, which is taken three tablespoons three times a day. The product should be used under the supervision of a doctor. Large stones can cause severe pain as they pass through the ureter.
Liver diseases
It is more rational to use honey here. It is mixed with blackcurrant in a 1:1 ratio and taken a teaspoon two hours before meals. The volume of the mixture is not regulated, but it is better to do it little by little and often. Store the finished product in the refrigerator.
For prostatitis
For men with inflammation of the prostate gland, Canadian goldenrod, as the only remedy, is useless for treatment. A miracle will not happen when using preparations from this plant. But you can delay treatment and “translate” acute inflammation into chronic. The first is quite easily treated with antibiotics. The second is practically untreatable. In any case, you need to check with your doctor whether antibiotics and Solidago canadiana are compatible.
In traditional medicine, for prostatitis, the auxiliary drug Prostanorm is prescribed. It includes:
- St. John's wort;
- licorice roots;
- Canadian goldenrod;
- Echinacea purpurea roots.
Prostanorm is contraindicated in diseases that do not require immunostimulants and acute glomerulonephritis
For the treatment of bruises and wounds
A decoction of Canadian goldenrod accelerates the healing of open wounds and bruises. When an injury occurs, the urea content in the body increases. Goldenrod reduces the level of this substance, normalizing metabolism.
For skin diseases
For skin diseases, the infusion is not only used internally to remove uric acid. The herb will not help against fungus, but a compress on an open ulcer will prevent a bacterial infection from getting hooked on the wound.
Goldenrod hydrolate is also used for compresses in the treatment of
- dermatitis;
- furunculosis;
- pustular rash;
- eczema;
- burns;
- open wounds.
The treatment method is simple: the drug is applied to an irritated or damaged area of skin.
Solidago canadian hydrosol for external use is often produced in the form of a spray
For joint pain
If joint pain is caused by gout, then the preparation from Canadian goldenrod is one of the best remedies for treatment. The disease develops as a result of a metabolic disorder in which uric acid crystals are deposited in the tissues. Goldenrod is one of the most potent agents that accelerate the excretion of urea from the body.
For foot and nail fungus
Only fungicides help against fungal diseases. Onychomycosis is not as safe as it might seem. If treatment is delayed, the mycelium grows into bones and internal organs. Fungi are very well protected from external influences by the nail plates or epidermis.
Neither ointments nor tinctures can cure this disease. Preparations from Canadian goldenrod can only be used as an adjuvant. According to the principle “it won’t get worse, although it’s unlikely to make it better.” To prescribe this treatment, you need to consult a doctor who will select a suitable antifungal agent.
When tired
In case of constant fatigue as a result of spring vitamin deficiency, goldenrod tea will help. Drink it 3-4 times a day after meals.
To strengthen the immune system
To strengthen the immune system, the infusion is consumed for two weeks. Then they take a break for two months. Courses can be repeated. During the course, drink 50 ml of Canadian goldenrod infusion three times a day.
Application in cosmetology
Infusions and decoctions are not used as cosmetics. In this area, goldenrod hydrosol is used.The drug is recommended for people with problematic and oily skin.
With regular use, hydrolate helps to cope with acne and pustular rashes. But we must not forget that these are hormonal problems that will not go away just by rubbing the skin with goldenrod.
Regular use of hydrolate helps improve the quality of oily skin. It loses its oily shine and dries out. The product relieves irritation and redness and gives a velvety feel.
Extract from the Canadian variety of goldenrod will eliminate redness and improve skin quality
Restrictions and contraindications
When used externally, there are practically no restrictions, with the exception of a possible allergic reaction. Oral use of goldenrod preparations has serious limitations. Infusion and decoction should not be taken:
- during pregnancy;
- for liver diseases;
- with Fanconi syndrome;
- for Hodgkin's lymphoma;
- with hepato-cerebral dystrophy;
- with xanthinuria;
- on a low protein diet.
The restrictions do not apply to honey, in which the active substances of Canadian goldenrod are present in negligible quantities.
Collection and procurement of raw materials
Only leaves and inflorescences are suitable for harvesting. The collection of raw materials is carried out after the plant blooms. When harvesting, cut off the tops of the stems of Canadian goldenrod, 15-20 cm long, separate the inflorescences and remove the leaves by hand. The resulting raw materials are dried under a canopy in the shade or in a well-ventilated room. The herb has a shelf life of three years.
Application in landscape design
Canadian goldenrod was introduced into culture back in the 17th century.Since then it has been used in landscape design. It is grown:
- in a group of plants;
- as a monoculture in a flowerbed;
- for decoration of garden buildings
- along the perimeter of the site as a green fence;
- along paths as a border crop.
Tall varieties of goldenrod are used for fencing, and dwarf varieties are used for borders.
Solidago canada is also cultivated for cut bouquets. Blooming goldenrod lends itself well to drying and can be used as an element for dry compositions.
Features of reproduction
In reproduction, the Canadian goldenrod uses all possible means:
- seeds;
- division of the rhizome;
- cuttings.
One plant can produce up to 100 thousand flying seeds. Due to their unpretentiousness, they do not even require preparation before planting.
The seeds of the Canadian goldenrod species are very small and cannot be planted evenly.
Planting and care
Being a tenacious weed, Canadian goldenrod does not require special growing conditions. It is enough to choose a suitable place, without particularly worrying about lighting. Subsequently, it is necessary to control the expansion of the plant.
Recommended timing
The timing of planting Canadian solidago depends on the chosen method of propagation. Seeds are sown immediately under the open sky in early spring. Since they are small, the sprouts that emerge later are thinned out.
Green cuttings are cut after they have reached almost full growth. Planting material is prepared in the same way as for any other plant. But cuttings are the most inconvenient way to propagate Solidago canadensis. The plant takes root best in conditions of artificial fog. It is irrational to buy an installation for the sake of one flower bed. Therefore, it is better to use division of the rhizomes of Canadian goldenrod.
This procedure is best carried out in late autumn, but before the onset of frost. For the winter, the aboveground part of the Canadian goldenrod is cut off. At this time, you can dig up the plants and divide them.
Site selection and preparation
The Canadian species of goldenrod prefers fertile soils, but survives well in poor soils. The same goes for lighting: it prefers sunny places, but can also grow in light shade.
Loves mineral fertilizers: potassium salt and superphosphate. If you need luxurious flowers, when preparing the soil you need to immediately add the necessary fertilizers.
The site must be chosen so that during floods and autumn rains the groundwater is below the roots of the goldenrod. If there is excessive moisture, the root system may rot. This point must be taken into account when watering. During flowering, the plant needs more water, but it is important not to overdo it.
Landing algorithm
Seeds are sown in early spring on loosened soil without prior preparation. There is no need to bury them, as they are very small. It is enough to lightly dust the achenes with soil and carefully water them from a watering can. When the sprouts grow, they are thinned out so that there is a distance of 20-30 cm between them.
When planting divided rhizomes, the rules are the same as for other perennial herbaceous plants. That is, after preparing the soil, the seedling is placed in a hole and covered with earth up to the root collar. If planting is carried out in the fall, take into account the weather forecast. Goldenrod must be planted so that it has time to settle in a new place before the onset of frost.
The root system of the Canadian species Solidago is very powerful and difficult to remove from the ground.
Features of cultivation
Caring for Canadian goldenrod, in fact, contains only two requirements: controlling the growth and pruning the stems before wintering. The plant is very winter-hardy and does not require special shelter for the winter. But the stems are cut at a height of 15 cm above ground level or lower.
Every 3-4 years, goldenrod must be dug up and the rhizomes divided. Solidago canadensis grows very strongly. If you do not regularly divide the plant, the plant will fill the entire area.
During the flowering period, more intensive watering is carried out than at any other time. This is where goldenrod care ends.
Pests and diseases
The Canadian newcomer in Eurasia has no natural enemies or diseases. This fact also contributes to the rapid spread of the weed throughout the surrounding area. But for a gardener, this circumstance can be a plus: Canadian solidago can cope with pathogenic microorganisms in the soil on its own, and there are no insects that eat it in Russia.
Interesting facts about Canadian goldenrod
According to some sources, Canadian goldenrod has interesting, little-known properties. In particular, they found that the plant releases toxic substances into the soil that suppress the development of pathogenic microorganisms. For some reason, this phenomenon is called “soil cleansing.” Unfortunately, these same substances also suppress the development of native flora, destroying farmland and surrounding plants.
You can also find claims that a decoction of a mixture of Canadian goldenrod and cloves suppresses the development of the yellow fever mosquito. The information is dubious. The homeland of this species of blood-sucking insects is Africa.It was introduced to South and Central America. Due to global warming, the mosquito's range has expanded to the southern regions of Russia. But it is very difficult for a female insect to meet a person there who is sick with the “African” disease. Therefore, the species does not pose any particular danger.
The mechanism of action of the decoction is unclear. It's not clear why, but there is no mention of its effects on other mosquito species. And it should act on them too. In addition, the Canadian species Solidago and the yellow fever mosquito have not been encountered before humans.
You can suppress either the development of the larva or the laying of eggs by the female. But the larvae develop in water bodies. If you pour hundreds of liters of solidago canadian decoction into it, everyone will be poisoned, even the frogs. It is also impossible to introduce the decoction into the female’s body. Most likely, it is implied that the product repels mosquitoes from humans. But this is the merit of cloves, not goldenrod.
There is only one fact that can be verified without fear for your life and the natural environment. This is the ability of a plant to turn white tissue yellow.
Conclusion
Canadian goldenrod can serve as a decoration for the garden, but it can also harm the owner of the site. If you intend to plant a plant, you must first consult whether it is prohibited in the area. If solidago canada is needed for medicinal purposes, but is prohibited for cultivation, it is easier to buy industrial preparations.
