Goldenrod, ragweed and poison ivy.

GOLDENROD

Last year I fell in love with goldenrod. I made a tincture and dried some for tea. It is a very interesting plant. Lots of people think that it causes their allergies when its actually ragweed that also grows with it that causes the allergies. Ragweed gets  pollinated by the wind where as goldenrod is pollinated by bees. I do actually know a few people who are allergic to goldenrod so if you have allergy issues you may want to make sure you are not before picking it.

I read that poison ivy and golden rod are seen growing together sometimes and that its pretty interesting because golden rod is something that can help with the itching of poison ivy, eczema, bug bites and other skin irritations. Since I do enjoy picking golden rod I am always cautious of poison ivy since its something I am extremely allergic to.

To make an astringent with goldenrod just place a hand full of goldenrod flowers and leaves into boiling water then turn the water off and let cool. Then you just put the water on your rash or bug bite and apply as needed. Store the rest of the astringent in the fridge for about a week.

Here is some more facts about goldenrod if you are interested. It is not a herb I would take every day for several days but as needed for mild allergies and to enjoy from time to time as a hot tea.

http://pennstatehershey.adam.com/content.aspx?productId=107&pid=33&gid=000251

RAGWEED

POISON IVY

Tomorrow we will try our hand at propagating sage.