Description: Aromatic perennial with extremely finely divided, fern-like alternate leaves. Stems hairy. Grows from rhizomes. White to pinkish flowers grow in flat-topped umbels at the end of main stem. Flowers from March to October. Up to 3 feet tall.
Ecology: Grows well in dry to moist meadows, fields and woodlands up to fairly high elevations.
Edible: Yarrow makes a tasty, aromatic tea that is healthful. The leaves are also edible either raw or cooked and have a bitter taste.
Medicinal: Yarrow is a potent and sacred medicine. The leaves and flowers are hemostatic (stops bleeding), and anti-inflammatory and are useful topically for a whole range of injuries and symptoms such as sores, boils, burns, and swelling. Use caution because repeated use of yarrow can cause sensitivity to sunlight. Internally, yarrow is a common treatment for fever. It can help break a fever and induce sweating. The plant also has a well-established history of use for menstrual problems. The tea can be drunk as a general health tonic. The roots can be chewed for toothache and gum problems.
Possible Hazards: Yarrow bears some resemblance to the deadly Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatum). While I think that the differences are obvious, people have died by mistaking poison hemlock for it's look-alikes. As always, be very sure of your identification before using any herb. You are responsible for your own safety.
For more info visit Plants for a Future Achillea millefolium
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