The New Healing Herbs by Michael Castleman

Author:Michael Castleman [Michael Castleman]
Language: eng
Format: epub, pdf
ISBN: 9781605298894
Publisher: Rodale
Published: 2009-12-08T23:00:00+00:00

Growing Information

A report in Endangered Species Bulletin described wild goldenseal as critically imperiled. Today, the herb is farmed but still costly, and adulteration continues to be a problem.

Goldenseal is a small, erect perennial with a hairy, purplish, annual stem that rises from a short, knotty rhizome with yellow-brown bark and bright yellow pulp. The herb has lobed leaves somewhat similar to raspberry leaves and small, greenish white flowers that bloom in spring and produce orange-red berries. It grows wild from Vermont to Arkansas, if you’re fortunate enough to find it.

Goldenseal is difficult to raise in a garden. Plants may be started from seeds, but it takes 5 years for the roots to become medicinally mature. Most authorities recommend buying 2-year-old rhizomes from specialty nurseries so you can harvest the roots 3 years later.

Viable rhizomes should have a sweet, licorice-like aroma. Plant them in early fall at a depth of 1 inch with 8-inch spacing. The soil should be amended with compost, leaf mold, sand, and bonemeal. Frequently, top-growth will not appear until the second summer.

Goldenseal requires moisture with good drainage and about 70 percent shade. It grows best under tree cover or shade frames.

Harvest the rhizome and roots in late fall, after frost has killed the top-growth. Clean the roots and dry them until they become brittle, then powder them and store the powder in airtight containers.

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