Yarrow is the common name of Achillea millefolium species, from Compositae family.
Also known as: western yarrow, nosebleed, millefoil, woundwort, devil's nettle, 蓍草 (shi cao).
Yarrow flowers and leaves.
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Features of Yarrow
Height to 36 inches. Spread to 24 inches. Zone 2. Herbaceous perennial
fine leaf.
small, white, clustered flower in summer and autumn.
Growing Yarrow
- transplant: uproot and replant 12 inches apart in spring and autumn.
- trimming: deadhead flowers to encourage second blooming
A native to the Northern Hemisphere, yarrow has long held a high reputation as one of the most versatile medicinal herbs.
Its Latin name Archillea refers to Archilles, who supposedly used yarrow to treat battle wounds.
Yarrow is used both internally and externally in herbal medicine for a range of ailments including bruises, colds, fevers, and high blood pressure.
Using Yarrow
Cosmetic
Tonic
To cleanse oily skin, infuse fresh flower as a facial steam or tonic. (Use flower)
Culinary
Salad
Add fresh young leaves into salad. Taste peppery, slightly bitter. (Use leaf)
Decorative
Decorative
Display dried flower heads of yarrow. (Use flower)
Household
Gardening
Speed up the decomposition of compost. A few yarrow leaves is all you need to do the trick. (Use leaf)
Gardening
Enhance the fragrance of plants nearby.
Gardening
Revive unhealthy plants when planted near them.
Medicinal
First-aid
Chewing fresh leaf may relieve toothache (Use leaf)
First-aid
Apply crushed yarrow leaves to wounds to stop bleeding. (Use leaf)
Tea
Yarrow tea induces perspiration, and is a good remedy for cold and fever. (Use leaf, flower)
Traditional Remedies
- Skin » chapped skin, rashes, wounds and sores
- Digestive » indigestion
- Disorder » menstrual disorders, fever, inflammation
- Other » toothache, detoxification
Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.
Cautions
- Dosage » Do not take Yarrow in large doses or over long period.
- Conditions » Yarrow is unsuitable for pregnant women.
- Please consult with your doctor before using yarrow for health related purposes.
Notes
Yarrow's species name 'millefolium' means a thousand leaves.
Yarrow grows fast and is an invasive plant. Cut back and transplant as necessary.
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