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Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow is a hardy perennial herb recognized for its delicate, feathery leaves and clusters of tiny, fragrant flowers, which range in color from white to soft pink. Thriving in gardens, fields, mountains, and roadsides, this resilient plant is often considered a common wild herb. Yarrow leaf and flower have been valued in traditional Western herbalism for their wellness-supporting properties and are frequently incorporated into skin care formulations, herbal tea blends, and tinctures.

Botanical Profile & Growth

Native to Europe and Asia, yarrow has since naturalized across North America. It is sometimes referred to as milfoil, a name reflecting its highly segmented, fern-like foliage. The plant sends up tall, slender stalks in summer, with height varying depending on seasonal rainfall—in drier conditions, it remains shorter, conserving energy in its roots. Atop the stalks, clusters of small, aromatic flowers bloom, exuding a distinctive herbal scent.

Mythology & Folklore

Yarrow’s botanical name, Achillea, traces back to Greek mythology and the legendary warrior Achilles. According to myth, Achilles’ mother dipped him in the River Styx to render him invulnerable, holding him by his heel—the only unprotected part of his body. As a warrior, Achilles was said to have used yarrow to tend to his soldiers’ wounds. However, he ultimately met his fate when struck in the heel, the one vulnerable spot.

Uses & Preparations

Yarrow can be:

• Infused into herbal teas
• Blended into skin care formulations
• Used in tinctures and extracts

Precautions

• Not for use during pregnancy except under professional supervision.
• Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family should use yarrow with caution, as cross-reactivity is common.
• Processed in a facility that handles tree nuts—occasional fragments may be present.
• Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.