Family : Asteraceae ( Compositae )
Latin name : Achillea millefolium
Also Known As : Common Yarrow, Nosebleed, Milfoil, Thousand Leaf
Yarrow has a long history as a herbal medicine. Achilles used it for injuries inflicted by iron weapons. Used as a cure for wounds, sores, rashes as well as fever, respiratory and digestive problems. In China it was used to treat menstrual disorders and hemorrhoids. In the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia it is listed as a specific for thrombotic conditions with hypertension.
The oil is obtained by steam distillation of the dried herb. The herb itself is a perennial with a simple stem up to 1m high with lacy leaves and pinky-white, dense flower heads.
The oil is dark blue or sometimes olive green in appearance. Pungent aroma, not to everyone's liking. Perhaps described as fresh, green, sweet, clinical with a background of camphor.
Relatively expensive oil. Not used extensively in aromatherapy.
Often used in the herbal treatment of horses. Yarrow is similar to rose in that it is soothing and calming - ideal for horses suffering from past trauma and abuse. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are used for treating aches, sprains and wounds. Accelerates the healing process. May be used undiluted. German chamomile has similar properties. Can be used to treat sweet itch, mud fever and insect bites.
Yarrow is found in most temperate zones. The oil is distilled mainly in Germany, Hungary and France. Some production in the U.S.A. and Africa.
Up to 51% azulene ( the blue colour )
Also pinenes, caryophyllene, borneol, terpineol, cineol, bornyl acetate, camphor, sabinene and thujone.
Used in skin treatments, perfumes and aftershaves. A flavouring in vermouths and bitters.
Yarrow has a long folk tradition.
Skin care
acne, burns, cuts, eczema, inflammation, rashes, scars, varicose veins, wounds
Circulation, muscles and joints
arteriosclerosis, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, thrombosis
Digestive system
constipation, cramp, flatulence, hemorrhoids, indigestion
Genito-urinary
amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, cystitis
Immune system
colds, flu, fever
Nervous system
insomnia, stress
Non-toxic and non-irritant in most people.
cedarwood, pine and vetivert.
