Rootwork

Yarrow

Achillea millefolium

AsteraceaeTemperate regions of Northern Hemisphere

Description

overall appearance

Perennial herb growing 1-3 feet tall with feathery foliage and flat-topped clusters of small white flowers.

roots

Creeping rhizome system with fibrous roots; spreads to form colonies; drought-tolerant underground storage.

stem

Erect, angular stems; slightly hairy; branching in upper portions; strong and wiry texture.

leaves

Finely divided, feathery leaves 2-4 inches long; bipinnate to tripinnate division; alternate arrangement; aromatic when crushed.

flowers

Small white (occasionally pink) flowers in dense, flat-topped clusters (corymbs); composite flowers with ray and disc petals.

fruits/seeds

Small, flattened achenes without pappus; dispersed by wind and animals; viable for several years.

Active Compounds

Sesquiterpene lactones (achillin; anti-inflammatory, bitter digestive)Flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin; antioxidant, anti-inflammatory)Alkaloids (achilleine; hemostatic, circulatory)Volatile oils (chamazulene, camphor; anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial)Tannins (astringent, wound healing)Salicylic acid (anti-inflammatory, pain relief)

Traditional Uses

  • Wound healing and bleeding control
  • Fever reduction and diaphoretic
  • Digestive disorders and poor appetite
  • Menstrual irregularities and reproductive health
  • Cold and flu symptoms
  • Hypertension and circulation

Modern Applications

  • Wound healing and hemostatic effects
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain relief
  • Digestive support and bitter tonic
  • Menstrual cycle regulation
  • Immune system support
  • Cardiovascular health

⚠️ Safety Information

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy (may stimulate uterine contractions)
  • Known allergies to Asteraceae family plants
  • Epilepsy or seizure disorders (thujone content)
  • Gallstones (may stimulate bile production)

Side Effects

  • Generally well-tolerated in appropriate doses
  • Possible skin sensitivity with topical use
  • Photosensitivity with excessive use
  • Drowsiness with large doses

Drug Interactions

  • Blood-thinning medications (may enhance effects)
  • Sedative medications (may enhance effects)
  • Lithium (may affect elimination)
  • Stomach acid reducers (may counteract)

Parts Used

  • Aerial parts (leaves and flowers - primary medicinal use)
  • Fresh plant juice
  • Essential oil (occasionally)
  • Dried whole plant

Preparation Methods

1-2 teaspoons dried herb per cup; steep 10-15 minutes

Fresh plant simmered briefly for stronger effects

1:5 ratio with 40% alcohol; macerate fresh plant 3-4 weeks

Fresh crushed leaves applied directly to wounds

Fresh or dried plant in carrier oil for topical applications

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Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.