Common Yarrow

GREENIT! COMMON YARROW

Common yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a perennial herb belonging to the aster family, native to Europe and Asia. It is also often called yarrow, pharmacy yarrow, or turkey grass.

Detailed characteristics:

• Appearance: A perennial plant with a branched stem and woody base, growing to 30–80 cm tall. The leaves are finely lobed, divided into multiple leaflets, as if they were made of “a thousand little leaves” (hence the name millefolium). The inflorescence is a tent-like one, consisting of small, white or pale pink (rarely darker pink) inflorescences. It has an aromatic, spicy scent due to its essential oils.
• Active ingredients: Chamazulene, cineole, tannins, bitter substances (e.g. Achillein), flavonoids.
• Possible beneficial effects:
  • • Gynecological effects: It regulates the menstrual cycle, relieves menstrual cramps, reduces heavy bleeding, and can be used as an anti-inflammatory in cases of fibroids or ovarian inflammation.
    • Digestive system: Stimulates bile and liver function, antispasmodic, improves appetite, reduces bloating.
  • Wound healing: Due to its astringent effect, it is an excellent hemostatic agent, for wounds, skin irritation, and for treating hemorrhoids (as a sitz bath).
  • Respiratory tract: Its tea, when inhaled, can help relieve respiratory diseases.
  • Possible applications:
  • • Tea: Tea made from yarrow (Achillea millefolium herba) is recommended to relieve female complaints.
    • Sitz bath/Douche: For inflammatory gynecological symptoms and/or hemorrhoids.
    • Tincture/Ointment: Externally, for skin problems.
  • Collection and storage:
    • Collection time: From June to September, during flowering.
    • Part: The upper 20-30 cm flowering shoot is worth collecting.
    • Drying: In a shady, ventilated place, it dries quickly.