Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
A member of the daisy family growing in hedgerows and verges, yarrow is easy to identify with its long, feather like leaves. It generally has a white flower but it isn’t uncommon to find them with a pinkish hue to them.
Property : Aromatic stimulant, Bitter-containing saponin, Astringent
Constituent : Volatile oil, Glycosides, Flavonoids, Bitters, Tannins, Saponins, Coumarins
Action : Diaphoretic, Antipyretic, Antihypertensive, Astringent, Haemostatic, Diuretic, Anti-inflammatory, Urinary antiseptic, Digestive stimulant, Anti-allergenic, Stomachic
Indication : Fever, Common cold, High blood pressure, Weak digestion, Prevents blood clots, Cystitis, Externally for cuts and wounds
Yarrow is a great addition to any herbal first aid kit. It has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties as well as being a useful treatment for colds and flu.
Yarrow makes an excellent first aid poultice for deep cuts and wounds (apparently it was used by soldiers in the Trojan war).
Yarrow Tea : Colds and flus; high blood pressure; tones varicose veins; prevents blood clots; tension; weak digestion.
Yarrow Ointment : Cuts, abrasions and minor burns.
Always seek the advice of a qualified medical professional.
If you’re interested in wild plants, take a look at our Herbal Remedies course. You can see photos from previous courses on our Facebook page.
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