Yarrow Plant: A Resilient & Versatile Herbal Remedy

Did you know that the yarrow plant (Achillea millefolium) is a hardy perennial that can grow up to 3 feet tall and thrives in various regions across the United States? This resilient herb is not only visually stunning with its fern-like green foliage and vibrant flowers ranging from white to red, yellow, and gold, but it also boasts an impressive array of medicinal properties. Use this guide to learn how to cultivate yarrow to benefit both your health and your garden.

Yarrow is one such plant that is one of the first medicinal herbs you should grow. It’s fantastic for its wound-healing abilities and is the main ingredient in some homemade antibiotic ointments. It’s also one of the herbs to use in an emergency until help arrives for its ability to stop bleeding.

It’s important to note that I am not a certified medical practitioner. This post is not intended to diagnose or treat but is for informational purposes only. Please contact your healthcare professional before introducing new herbal and natural remedies into your wellness routine.

Yarrow is a resilient perennial plant that also benefits the garden thanks to its deer-resistant qualities and low-maintenance nature. Its distinctive green foliage and fern-like leaves are complemented by clusters of small, daisy-like flowers that bloom in a range of colors that also attract beneficial pollinators.

If you are fortunate to live in an area where you can forage for wild herbs, you might just find yarrow growing wild right in your own backyard. Wild yarrow typically blooms in white and sometimes a pale pink color.

Don’t despair if wild yarrow is not readily available. Yarrow seeds are easy to find, and the plant is relatively easy to grow. While cultivated yarrow comes in a variety of colors that are visually appealing, it is generally recommended to plant the white or pale pink yarrow when used for medicinal purposes.

To maintain control over the yarrow plant’s growth, it’s important to be proactive in your garden management. Regular division of the plant’s clumps can help contain its spread, as can deadheading the flowers before they go to seed. Another management tool for yarrow is to consider growing in pots

The yarrow plant has a long history of use in herbal medicine and can even be used in herbal medicine for farm animals. Today, the plant continues to be valued for its remarkable health benefits, which include:

Anti-Inflammatory Properties – Yarrow’s anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable ally in addressing a variety of inflammatory conditions. The plant’s active compounds, such as sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, have been shown to effectively reduce inflammation, making it a natural choice for managing conditions like arthritis, muscle soreness, and even certain skin irritations.

• Wound Healing Abilities – The compound achillein in yarrow is known to help stop bleeding, making it a go-to choice for treating cuts, scrapes, and even more serious wounds.

• Digestive Aid – The plant’s bitter compounds can stimulate the production of digestive juices, while its anti-spasmodic effects can help soothe the gastrointestinal tract, making it a valuable ally in addressing issues like bloating, indigestion, and even mild digestive disorders.

Planting Yarrow

• Sun – Yarrow thrives in full sun conditions, so be sure to plant it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

• Soil – The yarrow plant prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.

• You can test your soil’s pH before planting for the best results. If needed, amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve its fertility and drainage. 

• Seeds – To plant yarrow seeds, simply scatter them on the surface of the soil and lightly press them in. Yarrow seeds shouldn’t be planted too deep, as they need light to germinate. After sowing, water the area gently to ensure the seeds make good contact with the soil.

• Seedlings – You can alternately start your seeds indoors and learn when to pot up seedlings before planting them in the ground. If starting yarrow seeds indoors, sow them in seed trays or containers several weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into the garden, taking care to harden them off gradually to acclimate them to the outdoor conditions. 

• Companion Planting – Yarrow will deter pests and attract pollinators; making it a good companion plant when you grow basil, oregano, and thyme.

Caring for Your Yarrow Plant

Caring for the yarrow plant is relatively straightforward, as it is a low-maintenance and drought-tolerant perennial. Here are some key tips for ensuring the health and longevity of your yarrow plants:

• Watering – Yarrow is a drought-tolerant plant, so it doesn’t require frequent watering. Water your plants only when the soil is dry to the touch, typically every 7-10 days.
  

• Deadheading – Regular deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, will encourage the yarrow plant to produce more blooms throughout the growing season.

• Dividing – Every 2-3 years, you can divide your yarrow plants to rejuvenate them and prevent overcrowding.

• Pests and Diseases – Yarrow is generally resistant to pests, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew. Keep an eye out for any signs of disease and treat accordingly.

Harvesting and Storing Yarrow

Proper harvesting and storage of the yarrow plant (Achillea millefolium) are essential to preserve its medicinal properties for use in herbal remedies, essential oils, and culinary applications. Here’s a guide on when to harvest your yarrow and how to properly dry and preserve this versatile herb:

Timing – The best time to harvest yarrow is during the plant’s flowering season, typically in the late spring or early summer. This is when the plant’s medicinal properties are at their peak, and the essential oils that give yarrow its distinctive aroma are most concentrated. Aim to harvest the flowers and upper leaves, cutting the stems just above the ground level.

• Preserving – After harvesting, it’s important to properly dry and preserve your yarrow to maintain its medicinal properties and essential oils. (You can also freeze-dry your herbs if you have a freeze dryer.)

• Storing – Once the yarrow is fully dried, you can store the leaves and flowers in airtight containers, such as glass jars or resealable bags. Keep the containers in a cool, dark place to protect the essential oils and medicinal properties of the yarrow. Properly stored, dried yarrow can be used for a variety of herbal remedies and culinary purposes throughout the year.

Using Herbal Medicine

Yarrow is considered a medicinal wonder. It has been used to stop bleeding of wounds and cuts; as a poultice for burns and open sores; used to cure fevers and colds; and alleviates toothaches.

The leaves were mashed with water and put on wounds. The Indians believed that it acted as a disinfectant and promoted healing. Pharmacists have extracted an alkaloid chemical from the plant and called it achillein, after the plant's genus name. This chemical actually reduces the clotting time of blood. There are accounts that even Achilles, for whom the plant is named, used it to stop bleeding wounds of his soldiers.

The yarrow plant is a true botanical treasure, and exploring the medicinal uses of the yarrow plant offers a wealth of opportunities for natural health and wellness.

Good luck on your journey to exploring this invaluable plant.

Sources:

NIH National Library of Medicine

USDA Forest Service