02/02/2026
YARROW (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow is a hardy perennial herb with feathery green leaves and clusters of small white, yellow, pink, or red flowers. It grows 24–36 inches tall and thrives in temperate regions. Historically, yarrow has been valued for its leaves, flowers, and roots in traditional herbalism, and it continues to be appreciated for both wellness and ecological benefits.
Parts Used and Traditional Applications
Leaves:
• Traditionally used in teas, infusions, and poultices
• Included in gentle wellness routines for soothing minor skin irritations
• Mildly aromatic, incorporated into herbal formulas
Flowers:
• Used in teas, tinctures, and infused oils
• Historically included in herbal preparations for calming and supportive effects
Roots:
• Historically used in plant-based remedies for pain relief, including toothache
• Occasionally brewed in teas for medicinal purposes
• Less commonly used than aerial parts but documented in traditional herbal practices
Forms:
• Fresh or dried leaves, flowers, and roots
• Tea
• Tincture
• Infused oil
• Poultice
• Capsules
Fun Facts:
• Known as Soldier's Woundwort due to its historic use in stopping bleeding
• Scientific name, Achillea, refers to Greek hero Achilles, who is said to have used it to treat soldiers' wounds during the Trojan War
• Sometimes used to induce or stop nosebleeds, earning the nickname “nosebleed plant”
• Attracts beneficial insects such as butterflies, bees, ladybugs, and hoverflies
• Starlings and other birds weave yarrow into nests to repel parasites
• Can produce yellow and green dyes for textiles
• Thrives in poor soil, is drought tolerant, and helps prevent soil erosion
• Edible and used in traditional medicine and divination
• Strong aromatic scent similar to sage or chrysanthemum, which deters deer
Native Range:
Europe, Asia, and North America
⚠️ Always do your research before introducing into your diet, especially if you have any underlying or pre-existing conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking medications. Yarrow, including the root, is generally not recommended during pregnancy.
