If you put a group of herbalists on an island and told them they could only have one herb, yarrow would likely be the popular choice. Often considered a jack-of-all-herbs, yarrow is a powerful, well-known plant. For thousands of years, yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has been used by cultures worldwide for numerous health concerns. Yarrow is named for the hero Achilles from Greek mythology. It was said he treated wounds with topical yarrow. Yarrow has feathery leaves and flat-topped clusters of small white flowers, making it easy to recognize.

This lovely plant is useful for many different health concerns. Yarrow is strongly antibacterial, especially in tincture form. Yarrow is also known for supporting people with varicose veins and high blood pressure. It can also help slow bleeding and is anti-inflammatory. As a result, yarrow can be helpful for painful muscles and joints. Additionally, yarrow can help balance women's hormones and deal with gastrointestinal concerns like diarrhea and other functional bowel concerns.

How to Use this Jack-of-All-Herbs?

Yarrow is generally well-tolerated and used in teas, tinctures, and topical preparations. Though, if you are allergic to ragweed or other plants in the Asteraceae family you will want to avoid yarrow entirely. Even in those without a ragweed allergy, hypersensitivity and contact rashes are possible but rare. Such reactions are more common when used frequently. Yarrow should be avoided during pregnancy unless it is under the direction of an herbally competent doctor or midwife. Remember to consult your healthcare provider before taking yarrow as it can interact with some medications.

Resources:

1. Thangavelu, Lakshmi & Geetha, R V & Roy, Anitha & Kumar Subramanian, Aravind. 2011. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium Linn.) A Herbal Medicinal Plant with Broad Therapeutic Use-A Review. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research; 9: 136-141.
2. Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC). 2010. "Assessment Report on Achillea millefolium L., flos." European Medicines Agency Science Medicines Health.
3. Marciano, Marisa. N.D. "Achillea millefolium." The Naturopathic Herbalist, A Place for All Things Herbal Medine. https://thenaturopathicherbalist.com/herbs/a-2/achillea-millefolium-yarrow/