Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Common Names Of Yarrow (Achillea millefolium):

Yarrow, Woundwort, Milfoil, Staunchweed, Herbe Militaris, Arrowroot, Bad Man’s Plaything, Bloodwort, Carpenter’s Weed, Death Flower, Devil’s Nettle, Eerie, Field Hops, Gearwe, Hundred Leaved Grass, Knight’s Milefoil, Knyghten, Milefolium, Milfoil, Millefoil, Noble Yarrow, Nosebleed, Old Man’s Mustard, Old Man’s Pepper, Sanguinary, Seven Year’s Love, Snake’s Grass, Soldier, Soldier’s Woundwort, Stanchweed, Thousand Seal, Woundwort, Yarroway, Yerw.

Description of Yarrow:

Yarrow, scientifically known as Achillea millefolium, is often referred to as the herb of a million flowers due to its prolific foliage. This perennial herb, belonging to the Asteraceae family, features a rough, angular stem with long, dark-green, feathery leaves. The white or pale lilac flowers form an umbellifer-like cluster.

Habitat of Yarrow:

Found in grasslands, meadows, pastures, and along roadsides, Yarrow is a resilient herb that thrives in various environments.

Identification of Yarrow:

Yarrow is easy to identify with its feathery leaves, and it can be found in most grasslands. The plant flowers from June to October, resembling a member of the Apiaceae family despite belonging to the Daisy family.

Food Uses of Yarrow:

Yarrow's peppery foliage and bitter leaves and flowers add an aromatic flavor to salads. The leaves can be used in various dishes, such as soups and sauces, or simply boiled and simmered in butter. Flowering tops can be sprinkled on salads and dishes as a condiment or decoration.

Medicinal Uses of Yarrow:

Known as Herba militaris by the ancient Romans, Yarrow was used to stop bleeding from cuts and wounds. It earned the names soldiers’ woundwort and staunch grass due to its ability to staunch bleeding. In herbal medicine, Yarrow is valued as an astringent herb for treating scratches, cuts, wounds, and sores. Yarrow has also been used historically to staunch bleeding, and its salicylic acid content, which is the precursor to Aspirin, has been used to treat fevers.

Other Uses of Yarrow:

Dried Yarrow leaves were once used as a substitute for tobacco, and the plant has been associated with divining sticks in consultations with the I-Ching. Yarrow also has deep roots, making it useful for preventing soil erosion, and it is planted with grasses used for fodder due to its high mineral content.

Safety Notes for Yarrow:

Yarrow may cause skin irritation in some people, and caution is advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In rare cases, it can cause severe allergic skin rashes, and prolonged use may increase skin photosensitivity. Yarrow is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, depression, anorexia, and hypersalivation. Pregnant and lactating individuals should use caution, as Yarrow has not been proven safe for these conditions.

Other Information for Yarrow:

Yarrow serves as a food source for insects, featuring a generalized pollination system. It is also recognized as a significant plant for preventing soil erosion.

Is Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) poisonous to dogs?

Yes, yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is indeed considered toxic to dogs. The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) lists yarrow as a plant that is toxic to dogs. The toxic components of yarrow include sesquiterpene lactones, glycoalkaloids, and tannins, which can cause adverse reactions in pets if ingested.

Symptoms of Yarrow Poisoning in Dogs:

If a dog consumes yarrow, it may experience the following symptoms:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Drooling
Lethargy or weakness
Depression
In severe cases: increased urination or tremors

These symptoms vary based on the amount consumed and the dog's size, age, and overall health.

History and Folklore of Yarrow:

Yarrow has a rich history steeped in legend and folklore. Named after the Greek hero Achilles, who is said to have used yarrow to treat his soldiers' wounds during the Trojan War, the plant has long been associated with healing and protection.

Ecological Benefits of Yarrow:

Yarrow plays an important role in supporting biodiversity. The plant's flowers are known to attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hoverflies, making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens.

Spiritual and Energetic Uses of Yarrow:

In addition to its role in medicine and folklore, yarrow is valued for its spiritual and energetic properties. It is considered a plant of protection and purification.

Propagation and Care of Yarrow:

Yarrow is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in various conditions, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels. Here are its basic care requirements.

Yarrow in Modern Herbal Practices:

Today, yarrow remains a popular choice for herbalists and alternative medicine practitioners. It is often included in herbal salves, tinctures, and teas to address a range of issues, from digestive discomfort to menstrual irregularities.

Symbolism of Yarrow:

Yarrow is associated with several symbolic meanings: healing and protection, love and friendship, and resilience and adaptability.

Interesting Fun Facts about Yarrow:

Yarrow is considered one of the "oldest medicinal plants" in use today. Archaeological evidence suggests that Neanderthals may have used yarrow over 60,000 years ago.
Its genus name, Achillea, comes from the ancient hero Achilles, highlighting its long history of use in wound care.
In Norse mythology, yarrow is associated with the goddess Freya and was thought to bring love and protection.