Yarrow
(Achillea millefolium)
milfoil, ladies’ mantle, thousand leaf
Description:
A 1-3 foot perennial which forms mats of interconnected roots
and feathery basal leaves. The tall, flowering stalks are topped
with flat umbels of snow-white, tiny daisy-like flowers, tinged
with pink at times. The soft, pungent leaves which clasp the
stem at the base are alternate, bipinnatifid with finely cut
segments. Found throughout the world, in waste places, field,
pastures, meadows and roadsides.
Medicinal:
It is a diaphoretic, astringent, tonic, hemostatic, stimulant
and mild aromatic. A
tea from the leaf or flower is used in remedies for fevers,
colds, to promote sweating, reduce high blood pressure, for
hemorrhoids, nosebleeds, stomach ulcers, and
menstruation problems. The flowers are used to treat eczema
and catarrh from allergies. A decoction of the whole plant is
used for bleeding piles and kidney disorders. It should be taken
in small doses. Avoid during pregnancy. A poultice of the fresh
plant or infusion is used for a bath wash and used externally
for muscle pain, joint inflammation. The root is chewed for
toothaches and gum problems, especially effective when steeped
in whiskey or rum. Use standard infusion as needed.
