Grow endangered golden root at home

Rhodiola rosea, commonly known as the golden root, is a medicinal herb and belongs to the Crassulaceae family. Roots are used for medicinal purposes. It is an almost forgotten plant but it was used extensively in the past and that is why it has become an endangered species in Europe! Thanks to its thick leaves and yellow flowers in the form of rosettes you can recognize it easily.

Medical properties

This perennial plant got its name thanks to its scent, which resembles roses. Roots contain adaptogens, which are substances that help the human body adapt to stressful situations. It positively affects mental and physical health and it has been used to fight stress, increase endurance and strength and improve physical and mental performance. Golden root grows at higher altitudes where people call it the arctic root.

Photo: Pixabay

Growing golden root

You may propagate by rhizomes. Keep in mind that it is a protected plant and you cannot simply pick it in the wild, not even for the purpose of propagation. So, the best way is to buy seeds in a garden store. Choose a sunny location and well-drained soil rich in manganese. Golden root is frost-resistant in Europe and can withstand harsh freezing temperatures down to -45 °C. As soon as winter hits, the plant sheds leaves and only keeps buds above the ground.

Medicinal properties

If you decide to use golden root for therapeutic purposes you need to get roots. Collect roots that are at least three years old, ideally during August and September. Wash roots thoroughly and cut them into thin slices and dry them well. Drying temperature should range from 40 to 50 °C. Grind root into powder and use it as a decoction or tincture (in alcohol).

Source:

https://www.magazinzahrada.cz/rozchodnice-ruzova-je-kriticky-ohrozena-lecivka-2/

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/cultivate-rhodiola-rosea-21776.html

Preview photo: Pixabay