Yarrow

Latin Name: Achillea millefolium
Herb Class/Action: Anodyne, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, diaphoretic, vulnerary, stimulant, circulatory stimulant, digestive, carminative, hepatoprotective, alterative, diuretic, expectorant, cardiac tonic
Parts Used: Aerial parts
Flavors: Bitter, pungent, acrid, diffusive, aromatic
Energetics: Warm/cool, dry, harmonizing, with a tendency towards cooling and drying
Traditional Benefits: Blood support, fever support, supports a healthy inflammatory response, immune support, supports healthy wound healing, circulatory support, qi support, liver support, digestive support, damp draining

Overview:
Yarrow is a versatile and powerful herb known for its harmonizing and healing properties. A resilient flower that thrives in a variety of environments, yarrow is revered for its ability to support the body in multiple ways, from promoting circulatory health to aiding in wound healing. With its long-standing use in traditional herbalism, including in cultures like Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and among Native American tribes, yarrow has a wide array of health benefits.

Historical Significance:
Yarrow has a strong presence in both mythology and practical herbalism. In Greek mythology, it is said to have been used to heal Achilles on the battlefield, and in Christian tradition, it was used to heal Joseph, the father of Jesus Christ, after an injury. Yarrow’s reputation as a healing herb dates back centuries, especially for its ability to heal wounds and stop bleeding, which further solidified its status as a legendary botanical ally.

Nutritional Profile:
Yarrow contains a wealth of compounds that contribute to its therapeutic properties, including flavonoids (anti-inflammatory), alkaloids (antimicrobial), tannins (astringent), and volatile oils (aromatic and antimicrobial). These constituents work synergistically to support the body’s natural healing processes, from circulation to immune function.

Traditional and Modern Uses:

• Blood Support: Yarrow is renowned for its ability to support healthy blood flow, making it an excellent herb for both promoting blood circulation and helping to stop bleeding when necessary. It regulates blood flow, toning and harmonizing the circulatory system.
• Fever Support: Known for its diaphoretic properties, yarrow encourages sweating, helping the body detoxify and regulate temperature. It’s traditionally used to ease fevers by promoting the body’s natural cooling mechanisms.
• Wound Healing: Historically, yarrow has been used topically for its wound-healing properties, helping to stop bleeding and promoting skin repair. Its vulnerary action makes it a go-to herb for cuts, scrapes, and bruises.
• Healthy Inflammatory Response: Yarrow supports the body’s natural response to inflammation, helping to reduce discomfort from conditions such as arthritis, muscle soreness, and other inflammatory issues.
• Circulatory Support: Yarrow’s ability to stimulate circulation and alleviate blood stagnation helps maintain healthy blood flow throughout the body, especially in cases of menstrual discomfort or sluggish circulation.
• Digestive Support: Yarrow is also a carminative, helping to support healthy digestion by reducing bloating, gas, and indigestion. It can stimulate bile production, easing digestion and supporting liver function.
• Qi Support: Yarrow’s harmonizing properties extend to the body’s vital energy (qi), helping to balance both the physical and emotional aspects of the body. It is especially beneficial for those who feel overwhelmed or overly empathetic, offering support to navigate stress and emotional overload.
• Liver Support: Known for its hepatoprotective effects, yarrow supports liver health by promoting detoxification and reducing the buildup of toxins in the body.
• Damp Draining: Yarrow has a cooling and drying action that helps to reduce excess moisture and dampness in the body, making it particularly useful during times of respiratory congestion or digestive sluggishness.

Harvesting and Preparation:
Yarrow is commonly found growing in gardens, fields, and along roadsides. The aerial parts—primarily the flowers and leaves—are harvested during the flowering season. Yarrow can be prepared as a tea, tincture, essential oil, salve, or oil infusion, making it easy to incorporate into both internal and external health routines.

Scientific Research:
Modern studies have supported many traditional uses of yarrow, particularly its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and circulatory properties. Research continues to explore its ability to balance the body’s inflammatory response, promote circulation, and support wound healing. Yarrow is also studied for its potential use in supporting a healthy immune response and as a remedy for digestive issues.

Fun Fact:
Yarrow is often referred to as the “Master of the Blood” due to its impressive ability to both stop bleeding and support healthy blood flow. Its multifunctional nature makes it an indispensable ally in herbal medicine.

Yarrow is a powerful, multifaceted herb that can support a variety of bodily functions, from blood circulation and liver health to digestive support and wound healing. Known for its harmonizing action, yarrow is an essential herb for anyone seeking balance, healing, and protection.