Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) (Cut & Sifted)

All of our herbs come from certified organic sources or trusted wildcrafters.

ALSO KNOWN AS: gordaldo, nosebleed plant, old man's pepper, devil's nettle, sanguinary, milfoil, soldier's woundwort, thousand-leaf, and thousand-sea 

PLANT FAMILY: Asteraceae 

PART(S) USED: Dried flowers, leaves, and stem

OVERVIEW: Yarrow is nativplumajillo (Spanish for 'little feather') from its leaf shape and texture.  

TRADITIONAL USES: In antiquity, yarrow was known as herbal militaris, for its use in stanching the flow of blood from wounds. In the Middle Ages, yarrow was part of a herbal mixture known as gruit used in the flavoring of beer prior to the use of hops.  

In vitro studies found various Achillea species, including A. millefolium, to have antioxidant activity. Studies in mice also found anti-inflammatory activity. Yarrow may also be useful as an insect repellent. 

The Navajo historically considered it a "life medicine" and chewed the plant for toothaches and used its infusions for earaches. The Miwok in California use the plant as an analgesic and head cold remedy. Common yarrow is used by Plains indigenous peoples such as the Pawnee, who use the stalk for pain relief. The Cherokee drink a tea of common yarrow to reduce fever and aid in restful sleep. 

Some Ojibwe people sprinkle a decoction of yarrow leaves on hot stones and inhale it to treat headaches or apply decoctions of the root onto skin for its stimulating effect. Some smoke its florets for fever-breaking purposes, either by pipe or off hot stones or coals. 

It has also been used to treat hemorrhaging, as a poultice to ease rashes, and as a tea made from the leaves to cure stomach ailments. 

STORAGE: Store in an airtight container in a dry cupboard away from light. 

PRECAUTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS:  

• Use at your own risk.  
• Do not apply to broken or abraded skin 
• Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have an existing medical condition, have allergies, or are on any medications.  

In rare cases, yarrow can cause severe allergic skin rashes; prolonged use can increase the skin's photosensitivity. This can be triggered initially when wet skin makes contact with cut grass and yarrow together. 

According to the ASPCA, yarrow is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, causing increased urination, vomiting, diarrhea, and dermatitis 

WARNING: This information is for educational purposes only, has not been evaluated by Health Canada, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.