Herb of the Week: Yarrow

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has been around for a very, very, very long time as an herbal ally to the human race. Known as a cure-all throughout history and a very interesting and prehistoric herb. It gained its scientific name from Achilles who was taught to use it by Chiron to heal his soldiers. And, there's another part of his myth that says the liquid he was dipped in (except for his heel) was actually yarrow tea! This herb not only goes by "yarrow" or "soldier's herb" but is also known as "blood wort" and "soldier's woundwort" because of its extensive use on the battlefields and its ability to staunch bleeding.

Indigenous tribes used it here in the Americas for earaches, toothaches, digestive issues, and to reduce fever. This is a globally used herb in most herbal traditions around the world. In the Victorian language of flowers, it symbolized both war AND healing. Sounds like witchcraft, right?

Did you also know that Neanderthals used it at burial sites? There are a few theories ranging from using the healing herb as final offering or gesture toward the deceased as a healer, or used just as a thoughtful burial rite, or (this is the most modern theory) that they were introduced into those areas by burrowing animals like rodents. Personally, I like the idea of the first theory.

What are the health benefits of yarrow? We already discussed one and, yes, it does slow bleeding by constricting blood vessels due to its astringent properties (why it's also called "herbal stitches") but what else does it do? It is a very potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial herb and it is a very versatile herb. It has been used for digestive issues, to help relieve menstrual cramps and help regulate heavy bleeding, it helps promote sweating (useful for breaking fevers), it helps manage cold/flu symptoms, reduces swelling and pain when applied topically, and increases blood circulation.

Witchcraft was already mentioned but there's more to this herb's partnership in witchcraft. Use this herb for protection, energetic boundary setting, healing, divination, and love spells/rituals. It's associated with Venus and the element of water. That's its healing side. Can you use yarrow for "justice spells"? Yes! Did you know that Yarrow is also known as "Devil’s Nettle," "Devil’s Plaything," and "Bad Man’s Plaything"? Because it's heavily associated with energetic boundary setting, you can also use this herb to bind, restrict, or stop someone from doing harm to someone else. Banishings are also a terrific use of this herb in the craft.

If you've enjoyed learning about yarrow and all its uses in a short amount of time, make sure to share the blog with other like-minded folks (or those who may be on the fence of wanting to know more).