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Yarrow

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Yarrow Achillea millefolium herb illustration

Yarrow

Achillea millefolium

Family: Compositae  |  Parts Used: Leaves and flowers

Yarrow is a historically important herb known for its ability to regulate bleeding, reduce fever, and support circulation. Named after the warrior Achilles, it was traditionally applied on battlefields to address wounds. It offers both cooling and strengthening effects and has been used across Western and Native American traditions for cold and flu, hypertension, excessive menstrual bleeding, and fever management. The compound achilleine is responsible for much of its hemostatic activity.

Immune Circulatory Reproductive Integumentary Western Native American

Traditional Uses

  • Cold and flu symptom support
  • Fever reduction
  • Hypertension management
  • Excessive menstrual bleeding regulation
  • Excessive external bleeding control and wound care
  • Digestive support

Properties

Key Constituents

Preparations & Dosage

  • Infusion: 1-2 tsp herb in 1 cup boiling water, or 1 oz dried herb per pint of water; up to 3 cups daily.
  • Tincture: 15-30 drops, up to 3 times daily.
  • Poultice: Fresh or dried herb applied topically to wounds for hemostatic support.
Fun Fact: Yarrow is named after the warrior Achilles, who according to Greek legend used it on battlefields to staunch bleeding wounds. Its historical use as a field wound herb spans cultures across Europe and North America.

Bonnie's Notes

I find yarrow particularly effective for excessive bleeding during menstruation. It's one of the herbs I reach for first when that's the presenting concern.

Cautions

  • Avoid during pregnancy.
  • Monitor for allergic reactions; discontinue use if symptoms occur. Yarrow belongs to the Asteraceae family and may cross-react with related plant allergies.
  • Avoid with blood-thinning medications; yarrow has hemostatic properties that may interact.

Habitat & Growing Conditions

Native to North America, Europe, and Asia. Found in prairies and meadows. Grows in USDA zones 4-8 with dry, well-draining soil in full sun.

Related Articles

Sources & Research

The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra, p211

Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide, Rosemary Gladstar, p212

Published Research:

Achillea millefolium: Mechanism of action, pharmacokinetic, clinical drug-drug interactions and tolerability | Heliyon (2023)

Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties of Achillea millefolium L.: A Review | Phytotherapy Research (2017)

Safety Assessment of Achillea millefolium as Used in Cosmetics | International Journal of Toxicology (2016)

Minireview on Achillea millefolium Linn | The Journal of Membrane Biology (2013)

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are under the care of a health care provider or taking prescription medication, check with your provider before using any herbal supplement.

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