Solomon‘s Seal (둥굴레)

Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum Multiflorum) is a member of the Lily family and seems to prefer shady spots that get around 3 hours of sunlight per day. Its rhizome is both edible and extremely medicinal and its use can be traced back some 3,500 years. There are indigenous varieties which grow in many parts of the world. In Korea, where its use is still very common, it’s drunk mainly as tea. It can be eaten raw, boiled like potatoes or you can make an infusion, a salve or a tincture with it. Like Marshmallow root, the infusion can be made with hot or cold water. It can also be powdered or used as an incense. Primarily, It helps with any musculo-skeletal issues, as well as digestive or respiratory conditions too. It excels, however, bringing its own particular brand of anti-inflammatory nourishment, mobility and flexibility to your joints as you age. It apparently gets its name from how parts of the rhizome are said to resemble the ‘Seal of Solomon’, a potent magical symbol, but having examined this plant very closely and found nothing of the sort, other than the disc like indentations along the length of the rhizome that may have inspired the name, my own experience of the plant tells me it’s much more likely to be due to its almost magical healing qualities.

When harvesting wild Solomon’s Seal, always replant any tips showing new growth, making sure the growing tip is pointing upwards, towards the sky. This ensures that this slow-grower will not be depleted and will continue to thrive.

- In Traditional Chinese Medicine it’s considered a yin tonic which moistens and nourishes inflamed, aching joints by increasing synovial fluid production.

- Relaxes the muscles and tendons around the heart and improves circulation in the capilliaries.

- Encourages broken bones to ‘knit’.

- Soothes the digestive tract and eases symptoms of IBS.

- Its decongestant, demulcent and expectorant properties help with colds or the flu. Very good for asthmatic conditions.

- Repairs injuries to muscles, ligaments and tendons, tones the muscles and helps realign the skeletal system correctly.

- Studies from China have shown it can be used to treat Alzheimer’s, cancer and diabetes mellitus

- Cleanses the gastro-intestinal tract of bacteria and parasites.

- Regulates blood pressure.

- Sexual health tonic.

- Has been used to treat Tuberculosis.

- Mildly astringent, diuretic and sedative.

- When used as an incense, it is said that burning the roots in your bedroom, before sleeping, ensures a good night’s sleep and refreshes the individual upon waking up, making them feel younger.

*Please note:

The berries of this plant are said to be toxic. We are aware of one source which says that the flesh of the berries is fine, in fact, delicious, to eat and it’s only the seeds that are the toxic part. But as this was the only account we could find, it’s not enough on it’s own to convince us to try them yet. More research is required.

The available Western literature on this plant recommends that pregnant or lactating women, and people who have an upcoming surgery, should avoid this plant. However, after reading much of the Korean literature on the subject (again let’s not forget Korea uses this plant ubiquitously, even today), we could not find the same cautions advised for pregnant women’s use of Solomon’s Seal at all. In fact, as long as the mother-to be has no current or past history of high blood pressure, Korean sources recommend it to pregnant women to reduce swelling of the legs during pregnancy.

So, who to believe? The fact that such contradictions exist may be confusing for some. Realistically, all you can do is arm yourself with knowledge by doing your own research, as much as possible, and then decide which way to go. We all have agency over our own health choices. No doubt, there is much more to be said on this matter.

We do not attempt to diagnose or treat anyone’s medical condition or give personal health advice. We accept no liability for any harm, loss or injury which may occur as a result of choosing to act upon the information provided. Please understand, you do so at your own risk.