Getting to Know Herbs: Yarrow

krnel (78)in #gardening • 6 years ago

Playing an important role in western herbalism as a tonic and an emmenagogue, yarrow is used in women's health to alleviate the symptoms of PMS and menopause. It brings effective relief from hot flashes and menstrual troubles and is also used as a diaphoretic. The flowers are harvested in the fall just before pollination and used to make an extract or infusion.

_{Photo by @krnel}

The scientific name for common yarrow is Achillea millefolium. Other names for yarrow include Achilee, Achillea, Achillea borealis, Achillea lanulosa, Achillea magna, Achillée, Achillée Boréale, Achillée Laineuse, Achillée Millefeuille, Acuilee, Band Man's Plaything, Bauchweh, Birangasifa, Birangasipha, Biranjasipha, Bloodwort, Bumadaran, Carpenter's Weed, Civan Percemi, Devil's Nettle, Devil's Plaything, Erba Da Cartentieri, Erba Da Falegname, Gandana, Gemeine Schafgarbe, Green Arrow, Herbe à la Coupure, Herbe à Dindes, Herbe aux Charpentiers, Herbe Militaire, Huile Essentielle d’Achillée, Katzenkrat, Milefolio, Milenrama, Milfoil, Millefeuille, Millefolii Flos, Millefolii Herba, Millefolium, Millegoglie, Noble Yarrow, Nosebleed, Old Man's Pepper, Rajmari, Roga Mari, Sanguinary, Soldier's Wound Wort, Sourcil de Vénus, Staunchweed, Tausendaugbram, Thousand-Leaf, Wound Wort, Yarrow Essential Oil.

_{Photo by @krnel}

Key Points

ancient plant used for healing
name comes from ancient Greek hero Achilles
relieves PMS and stomach issues

History

The name Achillea refers to the Greek hero Achilles who is said to have used the plant to heal wounded soldiers. It was called herbal militaris in ancient times for slowing the flow of blood from wounds.

The Amerindian tribe Chipewyan refered to it as a "holy flower", and the Cree "to put out a campfire" as it relieved burning pain.

_Source

Where is it found?

Yarrow is native to North America, Europe and Asia.

You can find yarrow in sunny location that it prefers, on thin sandy soils. It can also grow in partial sun conditions as well. Look along roadsides, fields, waste areas, canyon bottoms, subalpine zones and lawns.

What's it used for?

Leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. They have a bitter flavor that can complement salad mixes. Best used when young to have them less bitter. The leaves are also used as a preservative and flavoring in beer as a hop-substitute. Yarrow has many nutrients, but it shouldn't be consumed in large quantities. Teas can be made from the flowers and leaves.

Common medicinal uses are for stomach issues like diarrhea, gas, bloating, stomach discomfort. It's also used to treat gum inflammation, toothache, fever, hay fever, and the common cold.

Are there any risks?

Those with bleeding disorders should avoid, as yarrow can slow blood clotting which can increase the risk of bleeding. Avoid use before and after surgery.

Those with allergies to the Asteraceae/Compositae family of plants like ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many others might also be allergic to yarrow.

References:

Thank you for your time and attention. Peace.

_{If you appreciate and value the content, please consider: Upvoting, Sharing or Reblogging below.}
_{me for more content to come!}

_{My goal is to share knowledge, truth and moral understanding in order to help change the world for the better. If you appreciate and value what I do, please consider supporting me as a Steem Witness by voting for me at the bottom of the Witness page.}