Natural Healers- Yarrow

  Also known as Woundwort, among many other names, Yarrow was traditionally used to staunch bleeding. It can also be used to help heal bruises, rashes and haemorrhoids.  Yarrow's teas and tinctures contain sterols and

triterpenes that stop inflammatory processes, restore circulation and accelerate healing. It also contains compounds that stop the action of pain-provoking hormones. Besides stopping pain, Yarrow  can kill many bacteria found on the human skin, enabling it to stop potentially painful infection.
  As a hot tea, it can reduce temperature and induce sweating. It can also help soothe digestion and ease diarrhoea. Its essential oil can be used in a bronchial chest rub, and the salicylic acid in it can help relieve headaches, menstrual cramps and arthritic pain.

  Excavation of a Neanderthal grave suggests that the use of Yarrow goes back to prehistoric times, and Greek legend refers to it in ointments in the Trojan War, where Homer tells of Achilles using Yarrow to staunch his soldiers' wounds.
  Traditional herbalist in Europe, India and China have used Yarrow to stop minor bleeding and to treat wounds and inflammation. It has also been traditionally used as a mild sedative to treat insomnia.
  Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a useful herb in treating diarrhoea, flatulence, gastrointestinal inflammation and stomach cramps. It is also claimed that Yarrow can treat blurred vision. Its essential oil is used in aromatherapy to relieve colds and flu.
  To grow Yarrow, sow the very fine seeds under (cool) protection in autumn, and overwinter. Germination is erratic. Harden off the plants in the spring. Plant eight to twelve inches apart, bearing in mind it will spread. Alternatively, obtain some rootstock from an established plant. It is advisable to plant this with care, as it is an invasive plant. Millefolium doesn't grow well in containers, so you may wish to consider a hybrid or shorter variety. It is drought tolerant.

  Yarrow is a good companion plant, as its roots' secretions activate the disease resistance of other plants near it. It also intensifies the medicinal properties of  herbs, and deepens their fragrance and flavour.
  The young leaves can be used in salads. One small leaf will accelerate the decomposition of a wheelbarrow of raw compost. Infused, it will make a copper fertiliser.
 Please note- Yarrow should only be taken in moderation and over short periods, as it may cause skin irritation or headaches and vertigo. It should not be taken if pregnant.