What to know about Senecio aureus (golden ragwort) before using it medicinally

Senecio aureus, commonly known as golden ragwort, is a herb that offers a range of health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Cultivated for its ornamental value, this herb is a popular choice for gardens and floral arrangements due to its vibrant yellow blooms and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. Botanically, Senecio aureus is a member of the daisy family and is characterized by its distinctive golden flowers and fuzzy, silvery-green foliage.

With a rich history dating back to ancient times, this herb has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, with references to its use found in the works of renowned herbalists, including Galen and Dioscorides.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Senecio aureus .

What are the medicinal properties of Senecio aureus ?

Senecio aureus helps with reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and acting as an expectorant, making it a common remedy for respiratory issues such as bronchitis and asthma. It has been traditionally used to treat digestive problems like diarrhea and constipation. Its antimicrobial properties also make it effective against certain bacterial and fungal infections.

The medicinal properties of Senecio aureus are attributed to its active constituents, including sesquiterpenes, triterpenoids, and alkaloids, which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antispasmodic activities. The sesquiterpenes present in the plant have been found to be responsible for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

The most commonly used parts of Senecio aureus for medicinal purposes are the leaves, flowers, and roots, which are typically dried and made into teas or infusions. The leaves and flowers can also be used to make a poultice or topical application for skin issues and wounds. The root is said to be more potent than the leaves and is often used in traditional medicine.

Ingesting Senecio aureus in large quantities or for extended periods can lead to liver damage and other toxic effects due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which can cause hepatotoxicity and liver fibrosis. The plant's toxic effects are most pronounced when it is used as a tea or infusion, as this allows the PAs to be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream.

To use Senecio aureus medicinally safely, it is essential to follow certain precautions. The plant should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional, and in moderation, as excessive use can lead to adverse effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using the plant altogether due to its potential toxicity to the fetus or infant. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing liver conditions should consult with a doctor before using Senecio aureus.

What are the horticulural aspects of Senecio aureus ?

Senecio aureus grow in moist to dry soils in full sun to partial shade. It thrives in a wide range of pH levels, from acidic to alkaline, and can tolerate a variety of soil types. It requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot.

When planting Senecio aureus, choose a location with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and 12-18 inches apart in early spring or fall. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Fertilize lightly during the first year.

Harvest Senecio aureus flowers when they are fully open and still in bud, usually in late spring to early summer. Cut the stems near the base to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from flowering too profusely. Harvested stems can be used in floral arrangements or dried for later use.

Common pests affecting Senecio aureus include slugs, snails, and caterpillars, which can be controlled using organic methods such as hand-picking or introducing beneficial insects. Fungal diseases like powdery mildew and downy mildew can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation and watering at the base of the plant, rather than on the leaves.

What are the botanical aspects of Senecio aureus ?

Senecio aureus is a perennial plant with erect stems reaching 30-100 cm in height, simple or branched, hairy, and bearing alternate, lanceolate leaves with entire margins.

The taxonomical classification of Senecio aureus places it in the family Asteraceae, tribe Senecioneae, subfamily Cichorioideae. This classification is based on the plant's morphological characteristics and its closest relatives.

Several variants of Senecio aureus exist, including var. aureus and var. pubens, which differ in their leaf shape, pubescence, and flower color. These variants are often found in different geographical locations.

Senecio aureus is native to eastern North America, specifically in the boreal forests of Canada and the northeastern United States. It has been introduced to other regions, where it often grows in areas with moist, well-drained soils.

The life cycle of Senecio aureus typically spans 2-3 years, during which the plant produces rosettes of leaves in its first year, followed by a flowering stalk in its second year, and finally, the production of seeds in its third year.

What are the historical aspects of Senecio aureus ?

Senecio aureus is a plant that has been used for various purposes throughout history. In medieval Europe, it was used as a medicinal herb to treat a range of ailments, including fever and rheumatism. It was also used as a food ingredient.

In ancient Greek and Roman mythology, golden ragwort was associated with Apollo and the sun god. In Greek mythology, it was said to have been used by the goddess Hygieia, who was the daughter of Asclepius and the patron deity of medicine.

The golden ragwort has a rich symbolic meaning in various cultures. In medieval Europe, it was seen as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. In some cultures, it was also associated with the sun and light.

The golden ragwort has been mentioned in several historical texts, including the writings of Pliny the Elder and Hippocrates. It was also mentioned in the medieval herbals of Gerard and Parkinson.

Several historical artifacts feature the golden ragwort, including ancient Greek and Roman pottery and textiles. In medieval Europe, it was often depicted in illuminated manuscripts and stained glass windows.