It is believed that the legendary Greek warrior Achilles would have his comrades use Yarrow to treat their wounds during the Trojan War. The word Millifolium derives from the Yarrow leaves’ feathery appearance, separated so finely as to appear to be a plant with a thousand leaves. The yarrow does have a soothing and perhaps healing effect on mucous membranes used for treating bleeding of the lungs. It is indicated for helping individuals with diabetes, bleeding hemorrhoids, dysentery, and certain stomach disorders. It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiseptic properties, it is also an active decongestant, and astringent.
The common yarrow is sometimes used to treat fevers, such as typhoid. It may help to fight colds, reduce diarrhea, and help with the measles, smallpox, Bright’s disease, colic, rheumatism, constipation, toothaches and earaches.
It is possible that the flavonoids and alkaloids in yarrow tea could help individuals with anxiety and depression. Studies have shown promising results that suggest yarrow tea may support good brain health. Further, it may be used to help Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and encephalomyelitis (brain and spinal cord inflammation that is caused by viral infections).
It is applied/taken as an external ointment, poultice, douche, enema (for hemorrhoids), , infusion or tea.
Yarrow should be avoided by pregnant women, individuals taking blood thinning medication or suffering from bleeding disorders, 2 weeks before a surgery, or those allergic to ragweed.
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