Yarrow – the herbalist’s herb

You will find this modest little plant growing on grass verges, street corners, hedgerows and lawns all around our local area, and most of us are unaware of its amazing healing potential.  Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is named after the Ancient Greek hero Achilles who it is claimed used the plant to heal warriors’ wounds.  The second part of the name reflects the plant’s fine, feather-like bladed leaves that slightly resemble a millepede’s legs(!).  Yarrow is a complex herb that has many medicinal uses due to its numerous active constituents.  Notably, it is considered as the ‘master of the blood’, meaning it can treat any condition related to distribution of blood e.g. varicose veins and menstrual issues.  Flavonoids in the plant both strengthen and relax the peripheral blood vessels, which makes it a useful remedy for any circulatory issues including hypertension and venous congestion.  Yarrow also has a balancing effect in a number of cases.  For example, several constituents help to reduce blood clotting, whereas others help to stop bleeding.   What’s more, it can help to bring on delayed or irregular periods, but can also help to alleviate heavy menstrual bleeding.  It is a wonderful herb for wound healing and can be used as a first aid herb to stop the bleeding of even deep cuts, especially if you can crush some fresh plant and place it directly onto the wound.  Very useful to know if injured while out walking or playing!  Fevers are common-place, particularly at this time of year, and Yarrow can induce sweating and reduce fevers, encouraging heat to be dispersed from the inside out by sending blood to the skin and sweat glands.  In clinic I prescribe Yarrow in  both tincture and tea form depending on the case.  For fever reduction and at the first signs of colds or flu I use a hot herbal tea of Yarrow often combined with Elderflower and Peppermint to encourage sweating, and thereby reducing temperature.  Yarrow is an anti-inflammatory herb and it’s astringent and toning properties help to tone and heal mucous membranes of both the respiratory and digestive tracts.  I use Yarrow for cases of recurrent colds and sinusitis where there is a lot of mucous, as well as for acute and chronic diarrhoea, and topically for haemorrhoids.  Energetically, it is held to protect against negative energy and to alleviate fearfulness.  Now you know about this powerhouse of a little plant you will start to see it everywhere!!  You can always pick some to try at home for teas or a homemade tincture, but ensure you wash it well if it was near a lamppost or fence!!  As always, not all plants are appropriate for everyone.  It should not be used during pregnancy and please consult a qualified medical herbalist before internal use (especially with the tincture and if you are taking other medications).