"Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has been used medicinally and spiritually for over 3,000 years. The herb derives its name from the Greek hero Achilles, who, according to legend, used it to treat wounds on the battlefield during the Trojan War (~1200 BCE). Dioscorides (~1st century CE) praised its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties in De Materia Medica, recommending it for stopping bleeding and reducing inflammation. Roman physicians used it extensively for wound care and digestive ailments.
By the Middle Ages (~12th century), yarrow was a staple in European herbal medicine, cultivated in monastery gardens across England, France, and Italy. Wise women and midwives relied on yarrow’s styptic properties to control bleeding during childbirth and treat heavy menstruation. They also brewed yarrow tea to alleviate fevers, colds, and digestive discomfort. In rural areas, women applied poultices of yarrow leaves to wounds and sores. In Norse traditions, yarrow salves were used by healers during the Viking Age (~800 CE).
Spiritually, yarrow symbolized protection and courage. Wise women often included it in charms to ward off evil spirits or negative energies. In Scotland and Ireland, it was used in love divinations and rituals to enhance psychic abilities. Modern practices continue to associate yarrow with healing and energetic protection.
Today, yarrow is valued for its antimicrobial, astringent, and anti-inflammatory effects. It is used in natural remedies for minor wounds, menstrual cramps, and colds. Yarrow tea remains a popular choice for reducing fever and soothing digestive complaints. You should, of course, consult your doctor before using this or any other herb medicinally.
Botanical illustration source: Prof. Dr. Otto Wilhelm Thomé Flora von Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz 1885, Gera, Germany."
By the Middle Ages (~12th century), yarrow was a staple in European herbal medicine, cultivated in monastery gardens across England, France, and Italy. Wise women and midwives relied on yarrow’s styptic properties to control bleeding during childbirth and treat heavy menstruation. They also brewed yarrow tea to alleviate fevers, colds, and digestive discomfort. In rural areas, women applied poultices of yarrow leaves to wounds and sores. In Norse traditions, yarrow salves were used by healers during the Viking Age (~800 CE).
Spiritually, yarrow symbolized protection and courage. Wise women often included it in charms to ward off evil spirits or negative energies. In Scotland and Ireland, it was used in love divinations and rituals to enhance psychic abilities. Modern practices continue to associate yarrow with healing and energetic protection.
Today, yarrow is valued for its antimicrobial, astringent, and anti-inflammatory effects. It is used in natural remedies for minor wounds, menstrual cramps, and colds. Yarrow tea remains a popular choice for reducing fever and soothing digestive complaints. You should, of course, consult your doctor before using this or any other herb medicinally.
Botanical illustration source: Prof. Dr. Otto Wilhelm Thomé Flora von Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz 1885, Gera, Germany."
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