Evidence supporting the use of: European goldenrod
For the health condition: Kidney Stones

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

European goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea) has a long history of traditional use in Europe for various urinary tract conditions, including kidney stones. It has been employed in folk medicine as a diuretic and anti-inflammatory agent, with the intention of promoting urine flow and reducing inflammation in the urinary tract, which could theoretically help in flushing out small kidney stones or preventing their formation. This traditional use is recognized in some modern herbal references and by organizations such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA), which lists goldenrod as a traditional herbal medicinal product for flushing out the urinary tract to support minor urinary complaints.

However, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy specifically for kidney stones is limited. Most clinical and preclinical studies focus on its general diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, rather than direct action on kidney stones. While animal and in vitro studies suggest that goldenrod extracts may increase urine output and have mild anti-inflammatory effects, there is little direct clinical evidence demonstrating that it can dissolve kidney stones or significantly prevent their formation. As such, its use for kidney stones is justified primarily by tradition, and the quality of evidence is modest, warranting a rating of 2 out of 5.

In summary, European goldenrod’s use for kidney stones is grounded in traditional practice, with limited scientific validation, and should not replace established medical therapies for kidney stones.

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