Although often considered a pest, the dandelion is also cultivated for food and medicine. The roots are often used as a coffee substitue and a laxative. One species is also cultivated to produce latex. The goldenrods are about 100 species of weedy, usually perennial herbs of the genus Solidago and Compositae family. Most species are native to North America and are characteristic of eastern North America where up to 60 species are found.
Goldenrods are hardy and grow almost anywhere, from mountain-sides and woodlands to swamps.
Mugwort is known to cross react with almost all members of the Compositae family, especially the ragweeds , as well as dandelions , sunflowers, chamomilla and all daisy-like flowers. Mugwort also displays an important cross reaction in the context of food-allergies to celery. A member of the Compositae or sunflower family. Helianthus is the only root plant native to North America, which has gained economic importance. Its tubers are potato-like and a common foodstuff in both Europe and China.