The root of the yellow goatsbeard plant was already used in ancient Greece. The plant appears in some fresco paintings found in Pompeii, indicating that it was also part of the Roman diet.
During the Middle Ages, it was farmed and consumed, though it lost popularity with the coming of the industrial age. Nowadays, yellow goatsbeard is both a natural remedy and a food.
Healing Properties and Warning
The yellow goatsbeard plant root is sweet in flavor and slightly gummy. It contains several sugars (carbohydrates), such as inositol and mannitol, and small amounts of proteins and lipids (fats). It is a good appetizer and diuretic, sudorific (increases perspiration), and depurative.
Its use is especially recommended for those people suffering from arteriosclerosis, rheumatism, gout, and high blood pressure. It promotes the elimination of toxic metabolic waste. Diabetic people may take it freely because its carbohydrates do not increase glucose in the blood.
Yellow Goatsbeard Scientific Facts
- Other names: Meadow Salsify, Noonday Flower, Noon Flower, noontide, and Star of Jerusalem.
- French: Salsifis, barbe de bouc.
- Spanish: Salsifi, barba de cabra.
- Environment: Humid fields and roadsides all over Europe. Naturalized in warm and cold regions of America.
- Description: A plant of the Compositae family growing from 30 to 80 cm high, it has an upright system embraced by elongated, needle-tipped leaves and a fleshy, light-brown root.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The root and the leaves.
WARNING! Do not eat yellow goatsbeard fruits and seeds, which are toxic. The rest of the plant does not present problems.
How to use Yellow Goatsbeard
- Root: The best way to take advantage of its virtues is by eating it raw, sliced in a salad. It may also be cooked.
- Young leaves: In a salad. Their flavor resembles that of chicory and lettuce.
Frequently Asked Question
What parts of the plant are used medicinally?
Traditionally, the roots and leaves have been used. The roots are often dried and decocted (boiled) for teas, while the leaves can be eaten fresh or used in infusions.
What are the purported health benefits of yellow goatsbeard?
Historical uses suggest benefits for digestion, liver health, and urinary issues. Some sources also mention its use for coughs and bronchitis.
Is there scientific evidence to support these health claims?
Limited scientific research exists on the effectiveness of yellow goatsbeard for specific health conditions.
Can the plant help with weight gain?
Some historical references suggest the root may aid weight gain due to its potential stomach-strengthening properties.
Is the plant safe to consume?
While generally considered safe, people with allergies to other plants in the Asteraceae family (like ragweed or daisies) may want to exercise caution due to possible cross-reactions.
Are there any side effects associated with this plant?
There isn’t enough information on potential side effects. It’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications.
How is the plant typically consumed?
The roots can be boiled, consumed like parsnips, dried, and made into teas. Young leaves can be eaten fresh in salads or cooked like spinach.
Can the plant interact with medications?
There’s a lack of information on potential interactions with medications. Speaking with your doctor before use is crucial to avoid complications.
Where can I find yellow goatsbeard?
It can be foraged in some regions or purchased from herbal stores. Proper identification is essential before consuming any wild plant.
Is it safe to grow at home?
It is considered relatively easy to grow in a home garden. However, it should be differentiated from similar-looking plants to avoid accidentally consuming a toxic lookalike.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 243. Print. [yellow goatsbeard plant]
- PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- Google Scholar https://scholar.google.com/
- Botanical.com https://www.botanical.com/
- Plants for a Future https://pfaf.org/
- American Botanical Council https://www.herbalgram.org/
- The American Herbalist Guild website https://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/