Solidago Virgaurea

A European goldenrod, traditionally used in homoeopathy for an aching back over the kidneys, scanty urine and difficult urination.

Goldenrod is a hardy perennial of the daisy family, growing wild across Europe, North Africa and much of Asia. In late summer it carries tall spikes of small, bright yellow flower heads, and it is often grown in gardens. It has a long place in European herbal tradition as a plant for the kidneys and bladder.

Homoeopathy uses a tincture of the fresh plant and flowers. It is traditionally associated with the urinary system: aching and tenderness over the kidneys, scanty, reddish brown urine, difficult or painful urination and gravel. Homoeopaths also turn to it for hay fever with sneezing and for a bitter taste in the mouth.

• Kidney ache
• Scanty, dark urine
• Difficult urination
• Gravel
• Hay fever