Botanical Overview
Achillea millefolium, commonly known as Yarrow or Common yarrow, belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to Eurasia and North America and traditionally uses its aerial parts, including flower heads and leaves, in herbal medicine. Recognized for its fern-like foliage and clusters of small white to pink flowers, it has a long history of medicinal applications.
Energetics
Yarrow is characterized by a cooling and drying nature. It has a bitter, astringent, and aromatic taste profile and demonstrates an ascending energy. The herb is generally tonifying, acting primarily on the blood aspect within traditional energetic frameworks.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Astringent
- Diaphoretic
- Spasmolytic
- Hemostatic
- Antimicrobial
Indications
Western
- Fever
- Inflammation
- Wound healing
- Menstrual irregularities
- Digestive upset
- Cold symptoms
Syndromes
- Mild infections
- Poor circulation
- Menorrhagia
- Gastrointestinal spasms
- Nervous tension
TCM
- External wind-heat
- Skin eruptions
- Fever
- Headache
Syndromes
- Wind-heat invasion
- Heat toxicity
- Blood stasis
Ayurveda
- Bleeding disorders
- Fever
- Wounds
- Digestive disturbances
Syndromes
- Pitta imbalance
- Rakta dhatu vitiation
- Kapha disorders
Unani
- Menstrual disorders
- Wound infections
- Fevers
Syndromes
- Heat diseases
- Blood disorders
- Inflammation
Constituents & Mechanisms
The herb contains flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, volatile oils, tannins, and alkaloids which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, astringent, and spasmolytic properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 g herb per cup, 1-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL, 1-3 times daily
- Poultice: topical application on wounds and inflammation
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when used appropriately but may cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to the Asteraceae family. Use cautiously during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, due to potential uterine stimulant effects. Avoid in patients with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulants. There is a risk of photosensitivity and gastrointestinal irritation at high doses.
Astrological Correspondences
Yarrow is traditionally associated with Venus as its planetary ruler and Air as its elemental ruler, reflecting its astringent and cooling properties in herbal esoteric traditions.
Selected References
- European Medicines Agency (EMA) Herbal Monograph Achillea millefolium L., herba (2019)
- Plants For A Future (PFAF) Database: Achillea millefolium
- The American Herbal Pharmacopoeia, Hobbs C. (2004)
- NIH/MedlinePlus: Yarrow (2021)
- Grieve, M. A Modern Herbal (1931)
- Meyer, B. The Astrology of Herbs and Plants (1999)