TONIC IN FOCUS: Yarrow
YARROW
Achillea millefolium
I don’t know what it is about Yarrow but it is one herb which lights up my heart, especially when showing off it’s masses of white and pink-tinged flowers. We’ve always grown Yarrow in our gardens over the years, taking it from place-to-place, dividing and transplanting. Over recent years it has cemented its spot as one medicinal herb we just couldn’t do without.
Yarrow has a fascinating and longstanding history as a herbal ally - from Western folk medicine in Europe, to North America and now beyond. It is a mighty force which has naturalised across the globe and for good reason. It’s usage can be traced back in Europe to Greek mythology (hence the reference to Achilles in the botanical name, with it being used for ailments and brewed into beer in the Middle Ages. Whilst across the ocean it was being revered by Native Americans for it’s medicinal value in treating digestive issues, skin complaints and wounds.
Yarrow is known to have a particular affinity with the blood. Improving and stimulating circulation whilst also being used topically to treat wounds, cease blood flow and promote coagulation. It’s blood-nourishing properties make it an essential herb to bring us back to our centre, rejuvenate our essence and allow us to feel strong in our resolve.
I’ve felt this over the years as I’ve deepened my relationship with this herb. This long, rich history of use can be felt in the plant - it has seen us through some hard times - it knows where to grow and where it’s needed, it’s resolute and understated whilst also being intoxicatingly beautiful - both on the eyes and in the body. It proliferates when given half a chance and generously gives back to the home gardener and pollinators. It is hardy, easy to care for and I find quite manageable despite it’s vigour. It’s a great plant to grow at home - once you have it, you’ll be finding spots for it everywhere and it’s a fabulous herb to have abundantly stocked in your home medicine cabinet. All parts of the plant are edible, however its the flowers and leaves which we go for- easy to dry, strip the leaves from the stems and store for use in tea or tinctures.
Yarrow takes centre stage in our Energiser Tea Blend alongside an all-star herbal cast including Tulsi, Peppermint and Rose Petal. This tea is a mainstay on our menu when we’re trading and we have jars available online or to buy at the SAGE markets. Come and see why this is a favourite blend of mine and why I’ve become so obsessed with this herb.
Grab some seeds, or a clump off a friend and stick it in a spot in your garden and this plant will reward you in droves, as it has been doing for our ancestors for many generations.
Andy @ the Nourished Sovereign
