Yarrow, a native of Europe, was known in ancient times as a wound healer. Poultices of yarrow were applied to prevent excessive bleeding and bruising, and to promote healing. It was also used in medieval Europe as a toothache remedy and instead of hops in ale. Achilles used it for his soldiers' wounds, and was named after him.
Common yarrow has flat flowers ranging in color from white to red, which grow in loose, branched heads in the summer. The plants have green, deeply cut fernlike foliage and spreads 1-2 feet per year.
Current Uses
NOTE: This herb, in the writer's opinion, has not been researched well, and much current data is not available. The following are some uses that should be studied further:
Healing wounds -For minor cuts in the garden, grab some yarrow leaves and apply to the area to help stop bleeding until the wound can be cleansed and bandaged.
Anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory: Yarrow contains the chemical "chamazulene", which has been shown to help with allergic reactions and helping with internal and external bleeding.
Gynecological benefits: It can help ease menstrual pain, reduce bleeding and regulate the cycle. Yarrow tea can be made with one tablespoon fresh leaves, steep in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Since it is bitter, honey can be added, or I brew with a green tea bag to make it taste better.
Colds and flu: Yarrow is sometimes combined with elder flower and peppermint to make a tea to help a cold and fever. Combine equal parts to make one teaspoon and infuse in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups a day.
Growing
Size varies from six inches to three feet. It can be grown in zones 3-9. Some yarrow grows wild in North America. This type has white flowers and its roots are very invasive. It actually grows in the grass in my yard. Most commercial plants have more of a clumping root and can be divided about every three years. These perennials are not only healthy, but are a beautiful addition to a perennial garden. And the flowers attract many beneficial insects. The flowers can also be dried for arrangements. Some of the more popular cultivars are:
'Cerise Queen', cerise red, 1-2' tall 'Red Beauty', cerise red, 2' tall 'Salmon Beauty', Galaxy hybrid, salmon color, 2-3' tall 'Summer Pastels', assorted pastel colors, 2' tall, 'The Beacon', Galaxy hybrid, rich red, yellow centers, 2-3' tall 'Weser River Sandstone', deep rose-pink, 2-3' tall
Plants like full sun, and growth is moderate to fast. Yarrow can be propagated by seeds, cuttings and root division.
 |
Go To Page: 1 2
| Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: | View all related messages |
For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to Laurel Morris's Herb Gardening topic, please visit the Discussions page.