Growing Goldenrod

I am very intrigued by growing herbs, but know next to nothing about how to do it. I am interested in very detailed information on how to grow goldenrod. Also, we have a large amount of dried leaves we have saved. We know it has a medicinal use, but my husband and I need (again VERY detailed) information on how to process and use these leaves. I appreciate any help you can give.

Native North Americans have used many species for various different uses, but since they all have different constituents and can be quite toxic you have to be quite certain of your identification before using anything. They are not easy to tell apart! I suggest you consult a herbal of Native American Plants for this information. Deni Bown in her book "Encyclopedia Of Herbs & Their Uses" says that the flowers of Canada Goldenrod, Solidago canadensis were chewed to relieve a sore throat, Sweet Goldenrod, Solidago odora was used as a stimulant and a diaphoretic, but also as a substitute for French tarragon. The best researched species is the European goldenrod, Solidago virgaurea. It is used as a diuretic, as an antiphlogistic, for bladder and kidney stones and to treat Candida infections.
I am sorry but I am not a herbalist and therefore am not allowed by law to give medicinal advice. If you can identify the species of the goldenrod you have, direct a question about its use to our medical herbalist, Susan Eagles.
Goldenrod is easy to grow on just about any soil, but it does best on rich moist, but well-drained soil in full sun. Deni Bown says that the leaves and flowering tops are harvested before the flowers are fully open and then are dried (on a screen in the shade)for use in infusions, liquid extracts, ointments, powders and tinctures.