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Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Family
Asteraceae
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Common Names
Yarrow, Nosebleed Plant, Thousand-Leaf
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Harvest
Though it can be harvested throughout the growing season, yarrow has the richest concentration of medicinal oils when it is in flower.
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Growing Conditions
USDA Growing Zone(s): Yarrow grows well in zones 3-8.
Plant yarrow in poor soil and water sparingly. Giving yarrow stressful growing conditions increases essential oil content of the flowers.
Yarrow will thrive in most types of well-drained soil with a pH of 4 to 7. It prefers full sun, but will adapt to a variety of situations: full sun or partial shade, cold or hot weather, wet or dry conditions.
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Medicinal Uses
Historically Yarrow has been used to stop bleeding, such as wounds and nosebleeds. It has historically also been used to treat other circulatory system issues, balance menstrual problems, as well as induce sweating.
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Stories & Traditions
The name Achillea comes from Achilles, the great warrior of Greek mythology. It was said to make him invincible where it was applied to his wounds, and Homer gives a vivid account of the use of yarrow to heal an arrow wound. In the account, the arrow shaft is cut away, the dried blood is washed out with warm water, and then yarrow root is sifted into the wound.
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​This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbal medicine.
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