Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a delicate looking plant known throughout the world as one with magical and big medicinal properties. The scientific name comes from the story of Achilles, and his habit of rubbing Yarrow leaves all over his body before battle for protection. Then came the fateful day that he missed his heel with the plant. The heel then became his downfall in battle. In America, Native tribes have multiple uses for it, the control of bleeding being the major use. The spiritual influences of this plant are reflected in the way cultures of the world have incorporated it into ceremony and divination. It is used in divination for the I Ching in China.
Yarrow is identified by the cluster of flowers along the stem and its fern like leaves. It is found growing all over the world, and can be an invasive species in lawns and pastures.
It is an herb of many uses. Its use as first-aid in battle is due to it's ability to stop blood flow and stimulate clotting from wounds. Stories have been told of hikers with accidental cuts and injuries, using Yarrow to staunch the bleeding. It has also been used by Native Americans for headaches, toothaches and to break an extended fever. Yarrow is an excellent poultice for bug bites and stings. It can be used internally as a mild laxative, it shrinks hemorrhoids, and aids in shrinking varicose veins.
Birds have been known to line their nests with this plant, due to the anti parasitic properties of it.
It has been said that the herbs you need will find you. Look in your surroundings, your yard and garden. The volunteer Yarrow is everywhere, just waiting quietly to be noticed. It is an herb with wonderful qualities for first-aid and wound care. If you're going to learn only one plant for it's healing abilities, this is the one!
A reminder that all things should be used in moderation, herbs included. And in the cases of allergies and pregnancy, caution is advised.
Yarrow is identified by the cluster of flowers along the stem and its fern like leaves. It is found growing all over the world, and can be an invasive species in lawns and pastures.
It is an herb of many uses. Its use as first-aid in battle is due to it's ability to stop blood flow and stimulate clotting from wounds. Stories have been told of hikers with accidental cuts and injuries, using Yarrow to staunch the bleeding. It has also been used by Native Americans for headaches, toothaches and to break an extended fever. Yarrow is an excellent poultice for bug bites and stings. It can be used internally as a mild laxative, it shrinks hemorrhoids, and aids in shrinking varicose veins.
Birds have been known to line their nests with this plant, due to the anti parasitic properties of it.
It has been said that the herbs you need will find you. Look in your surroundings, your yard and garden. The volunteer Yarrow is everywhere, just waiting quietly to be noticed. It is an herb with wonderful qualities for first-aid and wound care. If you're going to learn only one plant for it's healing abilities, this is the one!
A reminder that all things should be used in moderation, herbs included. And in the cases of allergies and pregnancy, caution is advised.
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