Yarrow

Yarrow

Achillea millefolium

Botanical Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family)

Botanical Description

Achillea millefolium is a hardy perennial growing 30-90cm tall. The species name “millefolium” (thousand leaves) describes the finely divided, feathery, aromatic foliage. Flat-topped clusters of small white (sometimes pink) flowers appear from summer to autumn. The entire plant is aromatic with a slightly bitter, astringent taste.

Medicinal Actions

Primary actions: Diaphoretic, astringent, styptic, anti-inflammatory, bitter tonic, antispasmodic.

Traditional uses: Named for the Greek hero Achilles, who used it to treat battle wounds. Also called “nosebleed” and “staunch weed” for its ability to stop bleeding. Used across many cultures for fevers, wounds, and digestive complaints.

Paradoxical action: Yarrow both stops bleeding (externally) and moves stagnant blood (internally) – context determines its action.

Body Systems Affected

Circulatory: Styptic for wounds; also moves stagnant blood, regulates menstrual flow.

Immune: Diaphoretic – promotes sweating during fevers.

Digestive: Bitter tonic; helps with sluggish digestion.

Integumentary: Wound healing; stops bleeding.

Safety Information

Generally safe for most people.

Pregnancy: Avoid – traditional emmenagogue.

Allergies: Those allergic to Asteraceae may react.

Photosensitivity: Some people develop skin sensitivity to sunlight.

Drug interactions: May enhance blood thinners and blood pressure medications.

Growing Guide

Hardiness: Zones 3-9. Extremely adaptable.

Light: Full sun.

Soil: Any well-drained soil. Thrives in poor, dry conditions.

Sowing: Surface sow in spring – needs light. Self-sows readily.

Spacing: 30-45cm apart. Can be aggressive.

Harvesting

Part used: Flowering tops and leaves.

When to harvest: During full flowering, in dry weather.

Drying & Storage

Dry at 35°C (95°F). Store in airtight containers for up to 1 year. Fresh plant is also effective for wound first aid.