Yarrow

Achilliea millefolium

A perennial, strongly aromatic herb growing up to 80cm in height. Lanceolate, with hairy leaves and a dense layer of stunning ray florets usually white, occasionally pink to a deepened red. The dried fruit is 2mm in length, wings are narrow and pale brown.

Family: Asteraceae

Which probiotic is it in?: Yarrow is a key herb in Bio-Live Gold and Bio-Live Dark.

Habit and cultivation: Originally from drier areas of Europe, growing along the roadsides, waste and coastal districts. Grown from seed or root division. Prefers limed soil and a sunny environment. The flowering parts are cut at ground level just as the florets begin to open from December to May.

Actions (known for): Vasodilator and diaphoretic.

History of Yarrow

Achillea is derived from the Latin and refers to Achilles, hero of the Trojan wars. Millefolium is borrowed from the Greek word myriophyllon meaning ‘bearing numerous leaves’. The English word Yarrow derives from the old German and possibly means ‘the provided’ or ‘the healer’. Throughout history Yarrow has been used to heal the wounds of famous warriors. Used by the Native Americans, Chinese and Ayurvedic traditions of medicine.

Parts used from the Yarrow

Above ground parts.

Constituents (bio available chemicals):

Azulene, camphor (essential oil), cinelo (essential oil), flavonoids and tannins.

Nutritional constituents:

Vitamins: A, C, E and K. Minerals: manganese, copper, potassium, iodine and iron.

Indications:

Amenorrhoea, cramps, spasms, muscular tension, fever, hypertension, menorrhagia and topically for wound healing and skin disorders.

Dosage:

Liquid extract (1:2): 20-40ml per week. Decoction/infusion of dried herb: 1-2 tsp infused for 10-15mins drunk hot 3 x daily. When feverish can be drunk hourly.

British Herbal Pharmacopoeia

Fevers, common cold, specific for thrombotic conditions with hypertension, including cerebral and coronary thromboses.

Cautions for therapeutic doses

Contraindicated during pregnancy, except at birth. Large doses of fresh herb can cause vertigo and headache.

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