YARROW aka COMMON YARROW aka BLOODWORT (Achillea millefolium)

DESCRIPTION: Yarrow aka Bloodwort is used as a tonic in helping to regulate the function of the liver. It contains Vitamins A, C, E and F and some Vitamin K. It also contains manganese, copper, potassium, iodine and iron. Yarrow is a member of the sunflower family, which has more than 80 species, and found in Europe and Asia.

THE GENUS NAME: Achillea comes from the mythical Greek Achilles, who was said to have carried the Bloodwort with his army to treat wounds from battle. The descriptive epithet 'millefolium' describes the featherlike leaves that are divided.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Tones the mucus membrane of the stomach and bowels. Heals the endocrine (glandular) system. Acts as a blood cleanser and at the same time opens the pores to permit free perspiration for elimination of waste and relieving the kidneys. The leaves are effective to stimulate clotting in cuts and abrasions. There are a wide-range of uses including as an anti-cancer herb. Relieves fevers, colds, the flu, cramps; helps individuals relax during illness; gets rid of rashes itches on the skin. It is also used in teas for a healing effect. Further, yarrow is used to stop wound bleeding, improve circulation and lower blood pressure.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS: Yarrow aka Bloodwort can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Therefore it should be stopped immediately if itching or inflammation, with formation of vesicles, occur. Yarrow should not be taken during pregnancy or nursing. Also excessive doses should not be taken because it will interfer with existing anticoagulant and hypo- , hypertensive therapies and may cause sedation and diuretic effects. - Pharmacy Times

PARTS USED: Leaves, stalks, flowers, roots.

GENERAL USAGE: You can easily make a salve, compress or tincture. You don't have to make a tea and ingest it all, especially if you are taking prescription drugs. Always talk to your physician, especially if you have questions. It would be interesting to see if your physician even knows about yarrow.

For a tea, the German Commission E Monograph, which is a therapeutic guide to herbal medicine, suggests approximately 1 teaspoon (4.5 grams) of yarrow daily or 3 teaspoons (15 ml) of the fresh pressed juice. A tea can be prepared by steeping 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 grams) of yarrow in 1 cup (250 ml) boiling water for ten to fifteen minutes. Three cups (750 ml) a day can be taken. A tincture, 1/2-3/4 teaspoon (3-4 ml) three times per day, can be taken. The tea, or cloths dipped in the tea, can be used topically as needed for minor skin injuries. For sickness, some skin conditions and cramps; flavoring agent in food and beverages.

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