Is Goldenrod compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Goldenrod?

Goldenrod

August 30, 2018 (Very Low Risk)

The flowering tops of this herbaceous plant are used. It contains flavonoids (hyperoside, rutoside...), tannins, saponosides, diterpenes, phenolic acids...

Traditional indications without conclusive clinical tests (Ema 2008, Blumenthal 1998 p 139): to treat inflammations and urinary tract stones; diuretic.

Since the last update we have not found published data on its excretion in breastmilk.

It is devoid of toxicity and has few published side effects. Some authors consider it safe during breastfeeding (Chrubasik 2002).

Given its lack of toxicity at correct doses, moderate consumption would be compatible with breastfeeding.

Precautions when taking plant preparations:
1. Make sure they are from a reliable source: poisonings have occurred due to confusion of one plant with another with toxic properties, poisonings due to heavy metals that are extracted from the soil and food poisoning due to contamination with bacteria or fungi (Anderson 2017).
2. Do not take in excess; follow recommendations from experts in phytotherapy. "Natural" products are not good in any quantity: plants contain active substances from which much of our traditional pharmacopoeia has been obtained and can cause poisoning or act as endocrine disruptors (contain phytoestrogens: Powers 2015, Zava 1998) if consumed in exaggerated quantity or periods of time.

Very Low Risk

Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

Low Risk

Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.

High Risk

Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.

Very High Risk

Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.

Synonyms

  • Common Goldenrod
  • Woundwort

Writings

  • Solidago canadensis (Latin, botanical name)
  • Solidago gigantea (Latin, botanical name)
  • Solidago virgaurea (Latin, botanical name)
  • Verge d'or (French)
  • Vara d'or (Catalan)

References

  1. Anderson PO. Herbal Use During Breastfeeding. Breastfeed Med. 2017Abstract
  2. Powers CN, Setzer WN. A molecular docking study of phytochemical estrogen mimics from dietary herbal supplements. In Silico Pharmacol. 2015Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  3. EMA. Community Herbal Monograph on Solidago virgaurea l., herbs. CHM. 2008 Full text (in our servers)
  4. Chrubasik S, Pollak S. [Pain management with herbal antirheumatic drugs]. Wien Med Wochenschr. 2002Abstract
  5. Zava DT, Dollbaum CM, Blen M. Estrogen and progestin bioactivity of foods, herbs, and spices. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med. 1998Abstract
  6. Blumenthal M. The American Botanical Council. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Ed. Integrative Medicine Com. Boston. 1998