What is Yarrow used for?
Traditional/Ethnobotanical uses Yarrow is native to Europe and Asia, and has been naturalized in North America. Its use in food and medicine is ancient, dating back to the Trojan War, around 1200 BC. In legend, Achilles used it on the Centaur’s advice, hence the name. In classical times, yarrow was referred to as “herba militaris” because it stopped bleeding wounds received in war. Yarrow leaves have been used for tea, and young leaves and flowers have been used in salads. Infusions of yarrow have served as cosmetic cleansers and medicines. Sneezewort leaves (A. ptarmica) have been used in sneezing powder, while those of A. millefolium have been used for snuff. Yarrow has been used therapeutically as a “strengthening bitter tonic” and astringent. Chewing fresh leaves has been suggested to relieve toothaches. Yarrow oil has been used in shampoos for a topical “healing” effect. Miscellaneous uses Yarrow has been used to induce sweating and to stop wound bleeding. It also has been reporte
