Goldenrod: From Misunderstood Allergen to Autumn Favorite
Foraged Goldenrod from our field
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For as long as I can remember, the coming of fall meant I would suffer from my allergies. I always thought that Goldenrod was the culprit. It wasn't until my 40s and allergy testing that I learned it wasn’t Goldenrod, but instead Ragweed. I rejoiced because I had always loved the fluffy, bright yellow blooms. Now, I cut them to put in flower arrangements, and one of my favorite uses is Goldenrod tea and Goldenrod syrup. Both are very easy to make and enjoy. Best of all, it doesn’t take any special equipment—and it’s fun! The syrup is wonderful in iced tea or lemonade.
Goldenrod also has potential health benefits. It has diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, contains antioxidants, and helps support the immune system.
Refreshing sun tea with Goldenrod Syrup
Goldenrod Syrup Recipe
Ingredients:
A bunch of Goldenrod flowers
Juice of one lemon
4 cups water
2 cups sugar
Bottles or Jars
Goldenrod in stockpot
How to make it:
Cut off the excess stems and leaves, then place the flowers in a stock pot.
Add the water, ensuring the flowers are pushed down into the water.
Bring to a boil, then turn off the heat. Cover and let sit for as long as 24 hours. (I have drained it as early as 3 hours and as much as 24.)
Once steeped, strain the liquid to remove any plant matter.
Add the sugar and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Boil for about 5 minutes to ensure the sugar is dissolved.
Pour into jars.
You can water bath the syrup to preserve it longer, but I use mine quickly enough that I just keep it refrigerated.
I've already opened 1 bottle!
Ready to hang to dry
You can also pick Goldenrod and dry it to use as an ingredient in loose leaf teas.
After drying I strip off the blooms and store in a jar
As fall arrives and the golden blooms of Goldenrod dot the landscape, I no longer see them as the source of my seasonal discomfort, but rather as a beautiful and beneficial plant to enjoy. Whether it’s arranging them in a vase to brighten my home or crafting a batch of syrup to enhance my teas and lemonades, Goldenrod has become a part of my autumn traditions. I hope you’ll give Goldenrod tea or syrup a try and find your own joy in using this lovely plant. It’s a simple way to connect with nature’s bounty, and the benefits are as rewarding as the process itself.
Links to items used in this post:
Sunchokes and Asters in bloom
