We all seek wholeness in our lives but despite even our most earnest attempts, life can feel disjointed. Goldenrod’s genus name is “Solidago,” derived from the Latin word “Solide,” which means “to make whole.” Goldenrod’s grassy, bitter-sweet and earthy aroma soothes the body and mind. It’s ideal for solidifying one’s meditation, massage, yoga or other unifying health practices.  

Native Americans used Goldenrod to craft a treatment for insect bites. The root and leaves were brewed into teas for various health conditions. Young Goldenrod leaves may be edible, and the seeds are occasionally consumed.

Naturally sprouting in parts of North America, Goldenrod plants are a genus of over 100 species of flowering plants in the Aster family. They may grow to a height of 3 to 7 feet and have narrow leaves and yellow flowers. The leaves and flowering tops of Goldenrod are put through a steam distillation process to extract the essential oil.