Goldenrod Tea for Transitioning to the Fall Season
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) is one of my favorite herbs for marking the shift into autumn. When I see those bright yellow flowers lining roadsides and meadows, I know that fall is on its way. While goldenrod is often mistaken for ragweed (the real culprit behind seasonal allergies), this beautiful plant can actually help with allergy relief and so much more. Today, I’m sharing why I love goldenrod, how you can use it, and a simple recipe for goldenrod tea.
Goldenrod: A Sign of Early Autumn
Goldenrod is a wild herb that thrives in open fields, hillsides, and along roadsides. For me, it’s a signal that summer is winding down and the cooler days of fall are approaching. I love using goldenrod not just for its herbal benefits but also as a decoration.
If you’re lucky enough to have goldenrod growing near you, consider harvesting some for tea or even drying it for seasonal décor. It makes a gorgeous addition to fall arrangements and garlands!
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Goldenrod’s Herbal Benefits
Goldenrod has been used traditionally for a variety of purposes, especially for seasonal allergies, respiratory support, and urinary health. Here are some of its key benefits:
- Supports the upper respiratory system – Goldenrod helps thin mucus, ease sore throats, and fight infections (Hoffmann, 2003).
- Aids with seasonal allergies – It may reduce itchy eyes, sinus congestion, and inflammation associated with hay fever (Tierra, 1988).
- Acts as a diuretic and supports kidney health – Goldenrod helps flush excess fluids from the body, making it beneficial for urinary tract health and kidney function (Gladstar, 1993).
- May help combat candida overgrowth – It has been traditionally used to support the body in fighting fungal infections like yeast overgrowth (Chevallier, 2000).
How to Use Goldenrod
Goldenrod can be taken as a tincture or tea, but my favorite way to enjoy it is as a warm, cozy cup of goldenrod tea, especially for allergy and hay fever relief. Drinking goldenrod tea allows the steam to help open up the sinuses while the herbal properties work internally to ease symptoms.
You can drink goldenrod on its own or combine it with other herbs that support respiratory and immune health.
Best Herbs to Blend with Goldenrod for additional Allergy Support:
- 🌿 Nettle
- 🌿 Licorice
- 🌿 Mullein
- 🌿 Red Clover
- 🌿 Peppermint
- 🌿 Ginger
Goldenrod Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons dried goldenrod (flowers and leaves)
- 1 cup boiling water
- Optional: honey, lemon, or a blend of allergy-supporting herbs
Instructions:
- Place goldenrod in a tea infuser or directly in a heatproof mug.
- Pour hot water (no longer boiling) over the herbs and let steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain, sweeten with honey if desired, and enjoy!
For a stronger infusion to help UTIs, steep or simmer for up to 30 minutes or prepare a larger batch to sip throughout the day.
How to Brew Herbal Tea
For detailed instructions on the methods for brewing herbal tea, check out my post: How to Brew Herbal Tea: Infusions and Decoctions.
Storage and Dosage
Storage: To keep dried goldenrod fresh and potent, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Properly stored, dried goldenrod can last up to a year while maintaining its medicinal properties.
Dosage: 4-8 oz 3 times daily (Easley & Horne, 2016).
Where to Find Goldenrod
If you don’t have access to fresh goldenrod, you can find dried goldenrod at many herbal suppliers, health stores, or online. My favorite place is Starwest Botanicals. Other great options include Mountain Rose Herbs and Frontier Co-op. Look for high-quality, organic sources to ensure you’re getting the best medicinal properties.
FAQs About Goldenrod Tea
Final Thoughts
Goldenrod is more than just a bright yellow wildflower—it’s a powerful herbal ally for seasonal transitions, allergy relief, and urinary health. If you’re feeling those first hints of fall, consider making a cup of goldenrod tea and soaking in the seasonal shift.
Did you make this recipe?
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About the Author
Brittany Gibson is a modern suburban homesteader and the founder of The Homestead Challenge. She empowers women to adopt a simpler, more self-sufficient lifestyle, feeling confident to grow, create, and thrive on their own terms with joy and balance.
Read more about my transformation and join me in building our lives from scratch.
References:
- Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine.
- Tierra, M. (1988). The Way of Herbs.
- Gladstar, R. (1993). Herbal Healing for Women.
- Chevallier, A. (2000). Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.
- Easley & Horne (2016). The Modern Herbal Dispensatory
Goldenrod Tea
Ingredients
- 1-2 tablespoons dried goldenrod flowers and leaves
- 1 cup boiling water
- Optional: honey lemon, or a blend of allergy-supporting herbs
Instructions
- Place goldenrod in a tea infuser or directly in a heatproof mug.
- Pour hot water (no longer boiling) over the herbs and let steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain, sweeten with honey if desired, and enjoy!
