Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a versatile perennial herb known for its medicinal properties. Its pretty flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators to your garden, making it a beneficial addition to wildlife-friendly landscapes. 

Here are several ways you can use this garden favorite for healing.

Topical Applications

• Wound healing. Yarrow has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help promote wound healing. Crush fresh yarrow leaves and apply them directly to minor cuts, scrapes, or burns to help cleanse the wound and reduce inflammation.
• Bruises and swelling. Yarrow can be used in poultices or compresses to help reduce swelling and bruising. Steep dried yarrow flowers or leaves in hot water, strain, and apply the warm liquid to the affected area with a clean cloth.
• Insect bites. Yarrow’s anti-inflammatory properties can also help soothe insect bites and stings. Apply a paste made from crushed fresh yarrow leaves or a diluted yarrow tincture directly to the affected area.

Herbal Infusions

• Digestive aid. Yarrow’s bitter properties can stimulate digestion and alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas. Prepare a yarrow tea by steeping dried flowers or leaves in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Drink the tea before or after meals.
• Fever reduction. Yarrow is diaphoretic, which can induce sweating, which may help lower fevers and detoxify the body. Drink yarrow tea to support the body during fevers.

Internal Use

• Menstrual support. Yarrow is traditionally used to alleviate menstrual cramps and regulate menstrual flow. Drink yarrow tea regularly throughout the menstrual cycle to help ease discomfort.
• Urinary tract support. Yarrow has mild diuretic properties that can support urinary tract health and help relieve urinary discomfort. Drink yarrow tea as needed to promote urinary flow and reduce inflammation.

Aromatherapy

• Relaxation: Yarrow essential oil can be used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Add a few drops to a diffuser or inhale the aroma directly from the bottle.

Precautions

• Allergies. Some individuals may be allergic to yarrow. Use yarrow cautiously if you have allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as ragweed, daisies, and marigolds).
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid internal use of yarrow during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
• Medication interactions. Consult with a healthcare provider before using yarrow if you are taking medications or have underlying health conditions.

Harvesting and Preparation

• Harvesting. Collect yarrow leaves and flowers in full bloom. Dry the leaves and flowers thoroughly in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Infusions and tinctures. Dried yarrow flowers or leaves can be used to make herbal infusions (teas) or tinctures by steeping in alcohol. Follow recipes and dosage guidelines carefully.

Tips for growing yarrow

Growing yarrow is relatively easy and rewarding, as it’s a hardy perennial herb that attracts pollinators and adds beauty to gardens. Here are some tips for successfully growing yarrow:

• Yarrow thrives in full sun to partial shade. For optimal growth and flowering, it prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

• Yarrow tolerates a wide range of soil conditions but prefers well-draining soil. It can grow in poor, sandy, or rocky soils, making it suitable for various garden settings.

• Once established, yarrow is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water newly planted yarrow regularly to help establish roots, but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

• Plant yarrow 12-24 inches apart, depending on the variety, as it can spread through rhizomes. Proper spacing allows for good air circulation and reduces the risk of powdery mildew.

• Apply a thin layer of mulch around yarrow plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid mulching too close to the stems to prevent rotting.

• Yarrow is not a heavy feeder and generally does well without fertilizer. Add compost or a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins if your soil is poor.

• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season. Cut back yarrow plants to the basal foliage after flowering to promote new growth and maintain a tidy appearance.

• Propagate by division in early spring or fall. Dig up mature plants and divide the clumps into smaller sections with healthy roots and shoots. Replant divisions in prepared soil.

• Yarrow is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, watch for aphids and powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.

• Plant yarrow near vegetables and herbs like basil, oregano, and mint to support biodiversity and natural pest control.

• Several yarrow varieties have different flower colors, including white, yellow, pink, and red. Choose varieties that suit your garden’s color scheme and growing conditions.
• Yarrow is hardy in USDA zones 3-9. In colder climates, mulch around yarrow plants in late fall to protect roots from freezing temperatures.

The Backyard Pharmacy

Looking to expand your backyard pharmacy? Consider adding more medicinal plants like lavender, calendula, and lemon balm. These versatile herbs are easy to grow and can be used in teas, salves, and tinctures to support various aspects of health and well-being. Explore the endless possibilities of herbal remedies and enhance your natural medicine cabinet today with my book, The Backyard Pharmacy!