Yarrow A Potent Healer 
 
Achillea millefolium / YARROW - MILFOIL 
 
Yarrow is a widely recognized herb and conceals great 
powers. Even during the First World War yarrow was use for 
its ability to staunch the flow of blood. The word achillea 
comes from the battle of Troy. The legendary Achilleas was 
a Greek mythological hero who healed him self and other 
warriors by wrapping yarrow around the wounds. Millefolium 
refers to the many segment of the finely divided leaves. 
It is said that just one small leaf will speed 
decomposition of a large wheelbarrow full of raw compost. 
Plants planted near by yarrow will be more disease 
resistant and herbs will have more intense medicinal 
properties. 
 
( Other names: Soldier’s woundwort , carpenter’s weed, old 
man’s pepper, nose bleed, devil’s nettle and thousand leaf 
 
 
Countries of Origin: Native to Europe and Western Asia , 
naturalized in North America and Australia. 
 
Parts used : whole plant , fresh or dried Part 
used for essential oil: flower 
 
Culinary: Finely chopped leaves can be added to salads and 
cheese dips . Has a peppery taste . 
 
Cosmetic: A week infusion of the Flowering tops in 
distilled water makes a nice facial steam and toner for 
oily skin. 
 
Medical :  
· As a tea: ( decoction ) common cold, sore throat, 
feverish conditions, digestive problems , lower blood 
pressure and strengthen blood vessels. 
· As a compress for minor wounds 
· As an external wash for infected skin , hemorrhoids, 
eczema, herpes and other skin problems. 
· It helps adjust menstrual period. 
 
 
Side Effects: Allergic rashes and increases skin 
sensitivity to sun light may result from prolonged use, Not 
recommended during pregnancy and nursing.