ENGLISH NAME: Yarrow
LATIN NAME: Achillea
millefolium
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Řebříček obecný
Turkey: Civanperçemi
Bulgaria: Бял равнец (Byal ravnets)
Georgia: ათასფოთოლა (Ataspotola)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Widely
distributed in temperate regions
Elevation: 100–1,600 meters
Terrain: Dry meadows,
pastures, roadsides, field edges, disturbed soils
DESCRIPTION:
Yarrow is a perennial herb growing 30–60 cm tall with finely divided, feathery
leaves and dense, flat-topped clusters of small flowers. Flower color ranges
from white to pink or pale yellow. It has a strong, somewhat camphor-like
aroma. The plant blooms from early to late summer and is highly attractive to
pollinators.
USABLE PARTS: Leaf, Flower
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used to reduce inflammation, stop bleeding, promote wound
healing, and relieve menstrual cramps. Also employed for digestive support and
as a mild analgesic and antipyretic.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Prolonged internal use
should be done with caution, especially during pregnancy or when on
blood-thinners.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Often combined with chamomile, calendula, or plantain in wound-healing salves
or teas for fever and digestion.
PREPARATION:
The leaves and flowers are dried and used in herbal teas, poultices,
compresses, or tinctures. Fresh plant can be used in first-aid poultices
directly on wounds.
HARVEST TIME:
Mid to late summer when the plant is in full bloom and aromatic compounds are
most concentrated.
HARVEST METHOD:
Cut flowering stems 10–15 cm from the top in the morning after dew dries. Use
clean shears to avoid bruising the plant.
CONSERVATION (STORAGE):
Hang-dry in small bunches or on mesh trays in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
Store in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Use within 1 year for
maximum potency.