Yarrow

December 31, 2020

YARROW

Achillea millefolium

Family: Asteraceae

Part used: Flowers, leaves

Energetics: Bitter, pungent, dry

Actions: Anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiviral, astringent, bitter tonic, diaphoretic, hepatoprotective, styptic

Yarrow is a perennial that grows wild here in Maine and many other places as well. Before buying the farm, when we looked at it, I remember feeling so happy and safe seeing all the wild yarrow on the land. I like to use yarrow energetically in the form of flower essence, infused oil, hydrosol and as a balm for protection, keeping clear boundaries and not taking on the energies of others. We harvest the flowers and leaves throughout the summer when they’re most vital and dry for teas, oils and tinctures. This is a great herb to use at the onset of a cold or flu. Yarrow can be beneficial for people dealing with IBS, Crohn’s, colitis, leaky gut and SIBO. It’s useful for heavy menstrual bleeding and cramping, and I use it topically for bruises and sprains.

Contraindications: Avoid if allergic to ragweed; taking in large amounts may cause nausea and vomiting.

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