Goldenrod Interactions Overview

Additional Details

Is Goldenrod Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Goldenrod is a plant native to Europe but also found in other regions like Asia, Australia, and North and South America. Traditionally, it has been used for various purposes, including urogenital complaints and as an analgesic, antipyretic, antiseptic, astringent, and diuretic.

However, there are some precautions to consider. Some experts have raised concerns that goldenrod might interfere with the body's immune and inflammatory response against COVID-19. While there is no strong evidence to support this claim, there's also no evidence that goldenrod benefits against COVID-19. As a precaution, it's best to avoid using goldenrod during pregnancy and lactation due to the lack of reliable information about its safety in these situations.

How Is Goldenrod Thought To Work? What Is the Mechanism of Action?

Goldenrod's active components are found in its above-ground parts. It contains carbohydrates, proteins, uronic acids, and inorganic material. Notably, it is rich in flavonoids like quercetin, kaempferol, and rutin, as well as terpenoids, saponins, and phenolic acids.

Goldenrod is believed to have several effects due to these constituents:

• Analgesic Effects: In laboratory tests, European goldenrod extract has shown activity with receptors involved in pain sensation.
• Antifungal Effects: Goldenrod extracts have demonstrated the ability to inhibit the growth of certain fungi, possibly attributed to compounds like thymol and carvacrol.
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: Goldenrod has displayed anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, possibly due to its saponin and flavonoid content.
• Antimicrobial Effects: Goldenrod extracts have shown activity against certain pathogenic microbes.
• Antitumor Effects: In vitro and animal studies suggest that goldenrod may have immunomodulatory and antitumor effects, attributed to various compounds found in the plant.
• Cardiovascular Effects: In animal research, goldenrod extract has exhibited hypotensive effects.
• Diuretic Effects: Goldenrod has demonstrated diuretic effects, possibly related to its flavonoid and saponin content.
• Respiratory Effects: Studies on animals indicate that goldenrod may have cough-suppressant and bronchodilation effects, though less potent than codeine.

Pharmacokinetics

There is currently insufficient reliable information available about the pharmacokinetics of goldenrod. More research is needed in this area to fully understand how the body processes and interacts with this plant.

Interaction Overview (See Bottom of Page For Full List)

Goldenrod might interact with diuretic drugs, potentially increasing their effects and adverse effects. If you are taking diuretic medications, it is essential to be cautious when using goldenrod.

As for supplements and conditions, there are no known interactions with supplements, but cross-allergenicity, hypertension, and latex allergy may be relevant considerations.

Common Side Effects To Watch For

When used topically, goldenrod may cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. However, information on the adverse effects of goldenrod, in general, is limited.

Are Supplements Standardized?

There is currently insufficient reliable information available about the standardization of goldenrod supplements. As such, the quality and consistency of different goldenrod products may vary.

What Is Goldenrod Typically Used For?

Goldenrod has been traditionally used for urogenital complaints and for its various purported effects, such as analgesic, antipyretic, antiseptic, astringent, and diuretic properties. It has also attracted interest for potential use in conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), dental plaque reduction, kidney stones, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and as an antimicrobial and antitumor agent. However, it's important to note that there is currently insufficient reliable evidence to rate the effectiveness of goldenrod for these specific uses.

In summary, while goldenrod has a rich history of traditional use and potentially beneficial properties, more extensive research is needed to fully understand its safety, efficacy, and specific mechanisms of action. If you plan to use goldenrod, especially in supplement form, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.

Drugs that interact with Goldenrod