European Goldenrod

Solidago virgaurea

Solidago virgaurea, commonly known as European goldenrod, is a plant traditionally used in various herbal remedies. Its use has been documented in several folk and traditional medicine practices, particularly in Europe, though specific applications are not well-documented. Scientific evidence suggests that the optimal flowering time for Solidago virgaurea varies with growing season length, indicating its adaptability to different environmental conditions. The plant also exhibits high levels of phenolic and flavonol content, which may contribute to its potential health benefits. Additionally, studies have shown that essential oils from its flowers possess higher antibacterial activity compared to leaves, while the leaves exhibit stronger antioxidant properties. Notably, radiocaesium accumulation in contaminated areas has been observed, with Solidago virgaurea among the plants showing this characteristic. Safety concerns are minimal based on current data, and no significant drug interactions have been recorded.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • The study found that the optimal flowering time for Solidago virgaurea showed a nonlinear relationship with growing season length. D PMID
  • Solidago virgaurea had the highest total phenolic and flavonol contents among analyzed Asteraceae plants. D PMID
  • The study found that honey and capping wax from contaminated areas had significantly higher activity concentrations of 137Cs compared to control regions, with European goldenrod among the plants accumulating radiocaesium. D PMID
  • The study found that essential oils from Solidago virgaurea flowers showed higher antibacterial activity compared to leaves, and leaves had stronger antioxidant activity. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is European Goldenrod?

European Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about European Goldenrod?

4 sourced findings are recorded for European Goldenrod; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that the optimal flowering time for Solidago virgaurea showed a nonlinear relationship with growing season length.

How strong is the evidence for European Goldenrod?

The strongest finding for European Goldenrod carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is European Goldenrod safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for European Goldenrod in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does European Goldenrod interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for European Goldenrod in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of European Goldenrod?

European Goldenrod is also known as: Золотарник обыкновенный.

Is European Goldenrod a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Bioindication of radioactive contamination by honey bees in the Bryansk and Rostov regions: Foraging dynamics of 137Cs and 40K in the plant-bee-bee product pathway. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 A Preliminary Insight into Under-Researched Plants from the Asteraceae Family in the Balkan Peninsula: Bioactive Compound Diversity and Antioxidant Potential. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Testing a General Theory for Optimal Flowering Time in Deciduous Perennial Plants as a Function of Growing Season Length. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Unveiling the chemical composition and biological potential of essential oils from distinct parts of Solidago virgaurea L. from Western Himalayas. literature abstract metadata