Names:

Achillea millefolium, Milfoil, Bloodwort, Thousand-leaf, Soldier's woundwort

Description:

The genus name Achillea comes from the Greek mythological figure Achilles, who was said to have used the plant to heal the wounds of soldier's. Millefolium refers to the plant's feather like leaves. The flowering plant is part of the Asteraceae family. Yarrow has a long history is traditional medicine, herbalism, and even witchcraft. In medieval times is was considered a "cure-all" herb. I t was also used during World War I and the American Civil War to treat soldier's wounds and prevent infection. It is said that yarrow is used in spells and divination and is associated with Aphrodite, Hermes and the European Horned God. Medicinally, yarrow has been know to help with stomach problems, fevers, and to promote sleep. These stunning little clusters are often used in floral arrangements and bouquets.

Cultivation:

Yarrow is a perennial plant that can be grow in plant hardiness zones 3-9. It has been known to grow in zones 2 and 10 with some success. It is a low maintenance plant that does not require much fertilization. Great choice for borders, pollinator gardens, containers, and xeriscaping. Yarrow is grown from seed, division, and cutting, Seeds can be directly sow in late fall or early spring or they can be started indoors 6-10 weeks before last frost some varieties do need to go through a stratification period before planting. To grow by division you can dig up a mature plant in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant, cut the root ball into sections, and then transplant into your garden or give them as gifts. For yarrow cuttings you want a stem from a healthy mature plant. You want your cutting to be about 6 inches long with at least 3-5 buds. Let your cutting dry a few days to develop a callus over your fresh cut then dip into rooting hormone. You can then put your cutting into a pot, directly into your garden, or even in a glass of water. within a few weeks the cutting should develop roots. when the roots get to be 1-2 inches long it can then be transplanted to a container, in your garden, or given as a gift depending on your preferred methods of rooting your cutting. Mature plants like to be divided every 2-3 years to avoid overcrowding. Pruning helps to make plants bushier and reduce disease problems. Comes in many varieties and colors

Light requirements:

Full sun, but can tolerate partial sun

Soil requirements:

Well-draining, with a high organic matter loam but can be tolerant and grow in poor soil conditions.

Watering:

Drought tolerant. but needs to stay moist to germinate and get mature.

Harvesting:

Harvesting is best when in full bloom (usually June-Sept.)

Can harvest Flowers, leaves, and stems

Parts Used:

Aerial parts

Herbal Actions:

Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, astringent, choleretic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, styptic, vulnerary

Energetics:

Cooling, and drying

Medicinal Uses:

Medicinally used since ancient times. This herb has been used for so long medicinally on so many differ ailments and conditions such as treating wounds, reducing inflammation, relieve pain, reducing fever, relieve anxiety, improve digestion, and so much more. Can be used internally as a tea, tincture, or capsule. Externally, it can be used as a poultice, salves, oils and more. Some other uses that yarrow is known for is to help strengthen the immune system, reduce muscle spasms, and promote sleep. Because of so many uses this herb is considered a medicinal wonder.

Allies:

Herbs such as lavender, thyme, oregano, basil, and more.

Flowers such as salvia, catmint, and echinacea.

Cautions:

Not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding

Talk to your doctor before use if taking blood thinners, acid reducers, or blood pressure medications

May cause skin sensitivity

Part of the Asteraceae (daisy) family may can allergy sensitivity