By Barbara F. Smith

Like many home gardeners, the Herb Associates working in Berkshire Botanical Garden's Herb Display and Production Gardens near the Center House are busy with clearing beds and planting — particularly annuals and tender perennials, including a few selections not previously grown.

One is Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) of the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) “quite possibly one of the most useful and valuable plants on the North American continent and one of North America’s contribution to world medicine” (Rodale). Goldenseal is native to eastern North America, with a long history as a medicinal herb; it remains popular today.

This small, slow-growing perennial bears one or two heart-shaped, large leaves over a hairy stem. Its insignificant flowers ripen to red-orange berries. Named for its yellow root, goldenseal grows best in shady conditions and rich soil, under maple, birch or beech trees, rather than oaks or evergreens. The plant is difficult to grow, so for decades, people seeking to use it collected it from the wild. As a result, goldenseal plant communities in North America have become endangered due not only to over collection but also the destruction of habitat due to development.

This herb was long used by Native American groups who shared much herbal wisdom with early settlers to what became America. Goldenseal is associated with Cherokees, who used the herb in treatment of some cancers, and also mixed it with bear grease to repel insects. Captain Meriwether Lewis (of Lewis and Clark fame) collected it, and in 1704, he wrote a description in his journal of goldenseal’s preparation as a “sovereign remedy for sore eyes and excellent mouth water.” 

Modern science has, at least in part, supported that goldenseal has antibacterial, choleretic (liver stimulating) and anti-convulsive properties. It is a common ingredient in eye washes, mouth washes and topical treatments for psoriasis and eczema. When blended with clay paste, it has been used as a remedy for rashes from poison ivy, poison oak and insect bites. Goldenseal is also marketed as an antioxidant and is often combined with echinacea in supplements to support immune function. Much advice warns against internal uses of goldenseal, which may cause nausea and vomiting. In addition to its medicinal roles, goldenseal has been used to produce yellow dye, and if mixed with indigo, it produces a green color in wool, silk and cotton.

Another herb currently flourishing in the medicinal bed is Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) var. ‘Hidcote Blue.” This herb is also known as boneset, knitbone or slippery root. This herbaceous perennial is native to Europe, but it is found in America, likely brought here by early settlers. It is generally pest and disease free. One author characterized comfrey as a “real garden thug, as invasive as it is valuable,” although with 35 species in the Symphytum genus, there may be variations that are less “thuggish” than others.

Use of the Latin word officinale indicates its medicinal purpose/use. Records dating back to 400 BCE note the use of comfrey roots in traditional medicine internally (as a herbal tea or tincture) or externally (as ointment or compresses) for treatment of various skin ailments with their soothing and astringent qualities Comfrey leaf poultices were used to hasten healing of broken bones, giving it the name "knitbone." 

Beyond healing properties, comfrey leaves were cooked in soups and stews or tossed in salad. Following the Irish potato famine in the 1840s a British Quaker named Henry Doubleday established a charitable association to research the uses of comfrey as a food source for people and farm animals. Unfortunately, in 1978 a study found that rats fed a diet of dried comfrey leaves and roots developed liver tumors. No rigorous studies have been done to evaluate goldenseal use in people. Nowadays, only external use is recommended.

The comfrey variety found in the Display Garden is called “Hidcote Blue,” bearing lovely blue blossoms. One of the most beautiful lavender varieties is also named “Hidcote.” Further research revealed that Hidcote Manor is a celebrated estate and garden in the northern Cotswolds of England, known for its stunning design and historical significance. In 1907 Major Laurence Johnston, an American, bought Hidcote Manor and set about to develop the gardens and a collection of rare plants. Hidcote was one of the first gardens taken on by the National Trust (a heritage and nature conservation charity in the United Kingdom) in 1948. In addition to the comfrey and lavender varieties named for the estate, a strain of candelabra primroses, allium and St. John’s Wort also bear the Hidcote name.

What’s Happening in the Herb Kitchens?

In the hot kitchen, the Crew was busy making Dandelion Petal Jelly, a true ephemeral product with limited availability. It has a honey-like sweetness and a delicate yellow hue. Taking advantage of the spring harvest of rhubarb, the Crew prepared a batch of Clara’s Rhubarb Jam. In the cool kitchen, the Crew was busy preparing Chive Blossom Finishing Salt, the first in a line of finishing salts that debuted last season. These popular products are a delicious way to add flavor, texture and visual interest to a dish about to be served. Labeling began for the Spicy Herb Dressing prepared last week.

Visitors to the Berkshire Botanical Garden may purchase Herb Associates’ products in the Gift Shop. They make a lovely host gift for a friend or memento of your trip to visit this beautiful place. Thank you for your interest in all things herbal — check back soon for the next installment on the growth of the Herb Gardens and the work of the Herb Associates.

Particular Resources this week: National Institute of Health National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health; Rodale’s Encyclopedia of Herbs; Essential Herbal Wisdom by Nancy Arrowsmith.