Yarrow

 

Yarrow is a flowering perennial.  Common in North America, but also native to Europe and Asia. Its leaves are soft and highly segmented that look almost feather-like. Yarrow grows stalks during the summer months, with a height that is dependent upon the seasonal rainfall. During dry years, these stalks may only grow a foot or two, preserving energy in its roots. Clusters of tiny white flowers grow above the stalks, which have a distinct aroma.

Yarrow received its Latin name Achillea from the legendary Greek hero Achilles. According to the common legend, Achilles's mother dipped him into the river Styx by the ankle in an effort to make him invulnerable. Fighting many battles as a seemingly invincible warrior, Achilles used yarrow to treat the wounds of his fellow soldiers. He later died from a wound to his heel, as it was the one unprotected part of his anatomy.

This herb has a very long history of traditional use and there is evidence that the Greeks were using it to treat skin wounds as many as 3,000 years ago. Yarrow has been used through the ages to heal wounds, stop bleeding, fight fever, improve circulation, reduce menstrual bleeding, improve anxiety and treat various gastric issues. People also chewed on the fresh yarrow leaves to relieve toothache and gum problems.






Warning: not for use during pregnancy.

Ingredients:
Botanical Name: Achillea Millefolium

Common Name: Yarrow