YARROW
(Achillea millefolium)
milfoil, ladies' mantle, thousand leaf

Description: A perennial which forms mats of interconnected roots and feathery basal leaves. The tall, flowering stalks are topped with flat umbels of snow-white, tiny daisy-like flowers, tinged with pink at times. The soft, pungent leaves which clasp the stem at the base are alternate, bipinnatifid with finely cut segments. Found throughout the world, in waste places, field, pastures, meadows, roadsides.

Medicinal: Diaphoretic, astringent, tonic, hemostatic, stimulant and mild aromatic. Leaf or flower tea is used in a remedy for fevers, colds, to promote sweating, reduce high blood pressure, for hemorrhoids, nosebleeds, stomach ulcers, menstruation problems. The flowers are used to treat eczema and catarrh from allergies. A decoction of the whole plant is used for bleeding piles and kidney disorders. Should be taken in small doses, avoid during pregnancy. A poultice of the fresh plant or infusion used for a bath wash and used externally for muscle pain, joint inflammation. The root is chewed for toothaches and gum problems, especially effective when steeped in whiskey or rum. Use standard infusion as needed.

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