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Common Yarrrow, Milfoil , Achillea millefolium….Cỏ thi, Dương kỳ thảo, Xương cá, Cúc vạn diệp….#13
Image by Vietnam Plants & The USA. plants
Taken in Waco city, Texas state, southern of The USA.
The younger leaves are said to be a pleasant leaf vegetable when cooked as spinach, or in a soup
The leaves can also be dried and used as a herb in cooking.
Vietnamese named : Cỏ thi, Dương kỳ thảo, Xương cá, Cúc vạn diệp .
Common names : Common Yarrow, Milfoil, Milenrama
Scientist name : Achillea millefolium L.
Synonyms :
Family : Asteraceae / Aster family . Họ Cúc
Group : Dicot
Duration : Perennial
Growth Habit : Forb/herb
Kingdom : Plantae – Plants
Subkingdom : Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
Superdivision : Spermatophyta – Seed plants
Division : Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
Class : Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
Subclass : Asteridae
Order : Asterales
Genus : Achillea L. – yarrow
Species : Achillea millefolium L. – common yarrow
**** www.lrc-hueuni.edu.vn/dongy/show_target.plx?url=/thuocdon…
Cỏ thi, Dương kỳ thảo, Xương cá – Achillea millefolium L., thuộc họ Cúc- Asteraceae.
Mô tả: Cây thảo sống dai, cao 20-40cm hay hơn, có thân mang hoa mọc đứng, khía rãnh dọc chiều dài. Lá không cuống, hẹp, rìa phiến lại chia ra thành rất nhiều các đoạn rất sâu, nhọn và có răng ở mép. Ðầu hoa màu trắng hay hồng, xếp thành ngù rộng ở ngọn; lá bắc thuôn, rất tù, với một cạnh khỏe ở lưng. Quả bế xoan, thuôn dẹp.
Mùa hoa tháng 6-9.
Bộ phận dùng: Toàn cây có hoa – Herba Achilleae.
Nơi sống và thu hái: Cây mọc ở vùng núi cao các tỉnh Lao Cai (Sapa), Sơn La và Lâm Ðồng (Ðà Lạt) trong các savan cỏ trên đường đi, rìa rừng và đất hoang. Thu hái cây lúc có hoa, dùng tươi hay phơi trong râm đến khô.
Thành phần hoá học: Cây chứa tinh dầu, chất nhựa, tanin, phosphat, nitrat, muối kali, acid hữu cơ. Glucosid đắng đã biết là achillein; nó là một glucosid cyanogenetic hay một glucoalcaloide. Còn một alcaloid kết tinh gọi là betonicin.
Tính vị, tác dụng: Vị ngọt, đắng, cay, tính hàn, có ít độc; có tác dụng thanh nhiệt giải độc, lương huyết tiêu thũng, chỉ thống, điều kinh. Trong Tây y, người ta cho nó là chất kháng viêm và chống co thắt, kích thích nội tiết các dịch tiêu hóa (giúp ăn ngon) nó điều hòa và chống co thắt trong chứng rối loạn kinh nguyệt, và còn là chất làm tan sưng. Nhưng với liều cao nó gây chóng mặt và đau đầu.
Công dụng, chỉ định và phối hợp: Ðược dùng chữa: 1. Mệt mỏi toàn thân, ăn uống không ngon, trướng bụng, ỉa chảy; 2. Ho, hen suyễn; 3. Kinh nguyệt không thông, hành kinh đau bụng, rối loạn khi mãn kinh; 4. Thấp khớp, thống phong; 5. Sỏi mật và sỏi niệu; 6. Trĩ, sốt liên miên. Liều dùng 4-12g, dạng thuốc hãm uống hay phối hợp với các vị thuốc khác. Dùng ngoài trị bạch đới, lậu, trĩ, đau khớp, viêm da, viêm mủ da, mụn nhọt, nứt da, cầm máu các vết thương, rắn cắn, chó cắn… lấy cây tươi giã đắp.
**** www.vietgle.vn/trithucviet/detail.aspx?key=millefolium&am…
**** www.botanyvn.com/cnt.asp?param=edir&v=Achillea%20mill…
_________________________________________________________________
**** plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=acmi2
**** health-from-nature.net/Yarrow.html : Click on link to read more, please….
Description: Yarrow is herbaceous, perennial plant, grows up to 1 meter in height. It has one to several fibrous and rough stems, and leaves evenly distributed along the stem. Leaves are larger near the base, bipinnate to tripinnate slightly hairy and silky. Flowers are arranged into flat-topped clusters, with numerous, small and white flower heads. Flowering occurs from May to August.
Parts used: Stem, leaves, flowers.
Useful components: Achilleine, camphor, eugenol, proazulene, sterols, sesquiterpene lactones, tannins, triterpenes.
Medicinal use: Yarrow is considered to be antipyretic, diaphoretic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, carminative, cholagogue, hemostatic and sedative. It has been shown useful in cases of fevers and colds (usually in form of a tincture or infusion). In form of a tea, it is helpful in cases of stomach ulcers, amenorrhea, abdominal cramps, abscesses and diarrhea caused by bacterial infections. It relieves menstrual pains and cramps, and has a sedative effect, and acts as anti-inflammatory in cases of cystitis and urethritis. External use (ointments, salves, powders) is beneficial in treatments of hemorrhoids, nosebleed, wounds and bruises.
Safety: In some cases Yarrow could cause severe allergic reactions. Prolonged use could increase photosensitivity of the skin. Some herbs could react with certain medication. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before consumption of any herb.
**** en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Achillea_millefolium
Achillea millefolium, or yarrow[pronunciation?], is a flowering plant in the family Asteraceae, native to the Northern Hemisphere.[1] In New Mexico and southern Colorado, it is called plumajillo, or "little feather", for the shape of the leaves. In antiquity, yarrow was known as herbal militaris, for its use in staunching the flow of blood from wounds.[2] Other common names for this species include common yarrow, gordaldo, nosebleed plant, old man’s pepper, devil’s nettle, sanguinary, milfoil, soldier’s woundwort, thousand-leaf (as its binomial name affirms), and thousand-seal.
Description
Common yarrow is an erect herbaceous perennial plant that produces one to several stems (0.2 to 1m tall) and has a rhizomatous growth form. Leaves are evenly distributed along the stem, with the leaves near the middle and bottom of the stem being the largest. The leaves have varying degrees of hairiness (pubescence). The leaves are 5–20 cm long, bipinnate or tripinnate, almost feathery, and arranged spirally on the stems. The leaves are cauline and more or less clasping. The inflorescence has 4 to 9 phyllaries and contains ray and disk flowers which are white to pink. There are generally 3 to 8 ray flowers that are ovate to round. Disk flowers range from 15 to 40. The inflorescence is produced in a flat-topped cluster. The fruits are small achenes. Yarrow grows at low or high altitudes, up to 3500m above sea level. The plant commonly flowers from May through June, and is a frequent component in butterfly gardens. Common yarrow is frequently found in the mildly disturbed soil of grasslands and open forests. Active growth occurs in the spring.[1]
In North America, there are both native and introduced genotypes, and both diploid and polyploid plants.[3] The plant has a strong, sweet scent, similar to chrysanthemums
Establishment
Common yarrow is a drought tolerant species of which there are several different ornamental cultivars. Seeds require light for germination, so optimal germination occurs when planted no deeper than ¼ inch (~6 mm). Seeds also require a germination temperature of 18–24 °C (64–75 °F). Common yarrow responds best to soil that is poorly developed and well drained. The plant has a relatively short life, but may be prolonged by dividing the plant every other year, and planting 12 to 18 inches (30–46 cm) apart. Common yarrow is a weedy species and can become invasive.[4] It may suffer from mildew or root rot if not planted in well-drained soil.
There are several varieties and subspecies:
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. millefolium – Europe, Asia
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. alpicola – Rocky Mountains
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. borealis – Arctic regions
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. californica – California
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. occidentalis – North America
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. pacifica – west coast of North America
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. puberula – California
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. rubra – Southern Appalachians
Achillea millefolium subsp. chitralensis – western Himalaya
Achillea millefolium subsp. sudetica – Alps, Carpathians
Cultivation and uses
Yarrow flowers, late summer, Yosemite National Park.
Yarrow leaves
Yarrows can be planted to combat soil erosion due to the plant’s resistance to drought.
The herb is purported to be a diaphoretic, astringent,[5] tonic,[5] stimulant and mild aromatic. It contains isovaleric acid, salicylic acid, asparagin, sterols, flavonoids, bitters, tannins, and coumarins. The plant also has a long history as a powerful ‘healing herb’ used topically for wounds, cuts and abrasions. The genus name Achillea is derived from mythical Greek character, Achilles,[5] who reportedly carried it with his army to treat battle wounds. This medicinal action is also reflected in some of the common names mentioned below, such as Staunchweed and Soldier’s Woundwort.[1]
The stalks of yarrow are dried and used as a randomising agent in I Ching divination.
In the Middle Ages, yarrow was part of a herbal mixture known as gruit used in the flavouring of beer prior to the use of hops.[citation needed] The flowers and leaves are used in making some liquors and bitters.[1]
Old folk names for yarrow include arrowroot, bad man’s plaything, bloodwort, carpenter’s weed, death flower, devil’s nettle, eerie, field hops, gearwe, hundred leaved grass, knight’s milefoil, knyghten, milefolium, milfoil, millefoil, noble yarrow, nosebleed, old man’s mustard, old man’s pepper, sanguinary, seven year’s love, snake’s grass, soldier, soldier’s woundwort, stanch weed, thousand seal, woundwort, yarroway, yerw.
The English name yarrow comes from the Saxon (Old English) word gearwe, which is related to both the Dutch word gerw and the Old High German word garawa.[6]
Yarrow has also been used as a food, and was very popular as a vegetable in the seventeenth century. The younger leaves are said to be a pleasant leaf vegetable when cooked as spinach, or in a soup. Yarrow is sweet with a slight bitter taste. The leaves can also be dried and used as a herb in cooking.
Cultivars
The species is generally too weedy for gardens but cultivars include ‘Paprika’, ‘Cerise Queen’ and ‘Red Beauty’; and the many hybrids of this species designated Achillea x taygetea including ‘Appleblossom’, ‘Fanal’ and ‘Hoffnung’ are useful garden subjects.[7]
Agricultural Use: before the arrival of monocultures of Ryegrass, both grass leys and permanent pasture always contained Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) at a rate of ca. 0.3 kg/ha. At least one of the reasons for Yarrow’s inclusion in grass mixtures was that it is a deep rooted herb, whose leaves are rich in minerals. Thus its inclusion helped to prevent mineral deficiencies in the ruminants to whom it was fed.
Herbal medicine
Yarrow has seen historical use as a medicine, often because of its astringent effects.[1] Decoctions have been used to treat inflammations, such as hemorrhoids, and headaches. Confusingly, it has been said to both stop bleeding and promote it. (Depending on the form it is administered it can do both, which is why when dabbling in using herbs for medicine it is proper to contact a herbalist or other expert. Achillea Millefolium has been used with great success in promoting blood flow, as well as staunching blood flow when properly used.)[citation needed] Infusions of yarrow, taken either internally or externally, are said[by whom?] to speed recovery from severe bruising. The most medicinally active part of the plant is the flowering tops. They also have a mild stimulant effect, and have been used as a snuff. Today, yarrow is valued mainly for its action[clarification needed] in colds and influenza, and also for its effect on the circulatory, digestive, excretory, and urinary systems. In the nineteenth century, yarrow was said to have a greater number of indications than any other herb.[citation needed]
It is believed[by whom?] that anti-allergenic compounds can be extracted from the flowers by steam distillation. The flowers are used to treat various allergic mucus problems, including hay fever. Flowers used in this way are harvested in summer or autumn, and an infusion drunk for upper respiratory phlegm or used externally as a wash for eczema.[citation needed]
The dark blue essential oil, extracted by steam distillation of the flowers, is generally used as an anti-inflammatory[8] or in chest rubs for colds and influenza. [9]
The leaves encourage clotting, so it can be used fresh for nosebleeds.[10] The aerial parts of the plant are used for phlegm conditions, as a bitter digestive tonic to encourage bile flow, and as a diuretic.[11] The aerial parts act as a tonic for the blood, stimulate the circulation, and can be used for high blood pressure. Also useful in menstrual disorders, and as an effective sweating remedy to bring down fevers.[1]
Yarrow intensifies the medicinal action of other herbs taken with it,[12] and helps eliminate toxins from the body[citation needed]. It is reported[13] to be associated with the treatment of the following ailments:
Analgesic[14] Amenorrhea, antiphlogistic,[15][16] anti-inflammatory, bowels, bleeding, blood clots, blood pressure (lowers), blood purifier, blood vessels (tones), catarrh (acute, repertory), colds, chicken pox, circulation, contraceptive (unproven), cystitis, diabetes treatment, digestion (stimulates)gastro-intestinal disorders,[15] choleretic [17] dyspepsia, eczema, fevers, flu, gastritis, glandular system, gum ailments, heartbeat (slow), influenza, insect repellant, inflammation,[18] emmenagogue,[19] internal bleeding, liver (stimulates and regulates), lungs (hemorrhage), measles, menses (suppressed), menorrhagia, menstruation (regulates, relieves pain), nipples (soreness), nosebleeds, piles (bleeding), smallpox, stomach sickness, toothache, thrombosis, ulcers, urinary antiseptic, uterus (tighten and contract),gastroprotective [20] varicose veins, vision, may reduce autoimmune responses.[21]
The salicylic acid derivatives are a component of aspirin, which may account for its use in treating fevers and reducing pain.[citation needed]
Yarrow was also used in traditional Native American herbal medicine. Navajo Indians considered it to be a "life medicine", chewed it for toothaches, and poured an infusion into ears for earaches. Several tribes of the Plains region of the United States used common yarrow. The Pawnee used the stalk for pain relief. The Chippewa used the leaves for headaches by inhaling it in a steam. They also chewed the roots and applied the saliva to their appendages as a stimulant. The Cherokee drank a tea of common yarrow to reduce fever and aid in restful sleep.
Companion planting
Yarrow is considered an especially useful companion plant, not only repelling some bad insects while attracting good, predatory ones, but also improving soil quality. It attracts predatory wasps, which drink the nectar and then use insect pests as food for their larvae. Similarly, it attracts ladybugs and hoverflies. Its leaves are thought to be good fertilizer, and a beneficial additive for compost.
It is also considered directly beneficial to other plants, improving the health of sick plants when grown near them.
Use by birds
Several cavity-nesting birds, including the common starling, use yarrow to line their nests. Experiments conducted on the tree swallow, which does not use yarrow, suggest that adding yarrow to nests inhibits the growth of parasites.[23]
Insecticidal (EO on larvae of the Culicidae mosquito Aedes albopictus
Dangers
In rare cases, yarrow can cause severe allergic skin rashes; prolonged use can increase the skin’s photosensitivity.[25] This can be triggered initially when wet skin comes into contact with cut grass and yarrow together.
In one study aqueous extracts of yarrow impaired the sperm production of laboratory rats.
History
Yarrow was one herb identified at Shanidar IV, a Neanderthal flower burial of northern Iraq, dated c.60,000BCE along with a number of other medicinal herbs.
In popular culture
Stories about yarrow feature in traditional Chinese culture. For example, it is said that it grows around the grave of Confucius. Also, the most authentic way to cast the Yi Jing is to use dried yarrow stalks. The stems are said to be good for divining the future. Chinese proverbs claim that yarrow brightens the eyes and promotes intelligence. Yarrow and tortoiseshell are considered to be lucky in Chinese tradition.[27] Oriental tradition also assured mountain wanderers that where the yarrow grew neither tigers nor wolves nor poisonous plants would be found.
In Classical tradition, Homer tells us that the centaur Chiron, who conveyed herbal secrets to his human pupils, taught Achilles to use yarrow on the battle grounds of Troy.[28] Achilles is said to have used it to stop the bleeding wounds of his soldiers. For centuries it has been carried in battle because of its magical as well as medicinal properties. Western European tradition also connects yarrow with a goddess and a demon. Yarrow was a witching herb, used to summon the devil or drive him away. But it was also a loving herb in the domain of Aphrodite.
Yarrow also featured in British folk customs and beliefs. Yarrow was one of the herbs put in Saxon amulets. These amulets were for protection from everything from blindness to barking dogs. In the Middle Ages, witches were said to use yarrow to make incantations. This may be the source for the common names devil’s nettle, devil’s plaything, and bad man’s plaything. Some people believed that you could determine the devotion of a lover by poking a yarrow leaf up your nostril and twitching the leaf while saying, "Yarroway, yarroway, bear a white blow: if my love loves me, my nose will bleed now". (Yarrow is a nasal irritant, and generally causes the nose to bleed if inserted.) Nursery rhymes say if you put a yarrow sachet under your pillow, you will dream of your own true love. If you dream of cabbages (the leaves do have a similar scent), then death or other serious misfortune will strike. A folk belief states that if you hang a bunch of dried yarrow or yarrow that had been used in wedding decorations over the bed, you can thus ensure a lasting love for at least seven years.
In literature, in the book The Glass Bead Game by Hermann Hesse, Elder Brother uses yarrow stalks to divine the will of the Oracle.
In the science-fiction/fantasy novel Crystal Singer by Anne McCaffrey, Yarrow (or Yarra) is mentioned as the name of a planet where ‘the best beer in the galaxy’ is brewed.
In the manga and anime series Bleach, the insignia for the Eleventh Division is the Yarrow; the meaning behind it is Fight.
Similar species
Other plants with white flowers in large compound umbels that may be confused with Achillea millefolium include: water parsnip, (swamp parsnip, sium suave) and western water hemlock, (Cicuta douglasii, poison hemlock) and spotted water hemlock (Cicuta maculata, spotted water hemlock, spotted parsley, spotted cowbane). Water parsnip and water hemlock have clusters of small white flowers that are shaped like umbrellas, both grow in moist soils. Water parsnip leaves are once compound, and water hemlock leaves are three times compound. Water hemlock has a large swelling at the stem base. All parts of water hemlock are highly poisonous.[29] Other yarrow species have similar foliage and flowers, including: Achillea ageratifolia and Achillea nobilis.
Common Yarrrow, Milfoil , Achillea millefolium….Cỏ thi, Dương kỳ thảo, Xương cá, Cúc vạn diệp….#15
Image by Vietnam Plants & The USA. plants
Taken in Waco city, Texas state, southern of The USA.
The younger leaves are said to be a pleasant leaf vegetable when cooked as spinach, or in a soup
The leaves can also be dried and used as a herb in cooking.
Vietnamese named : Cỏ thi, Dương kỳ thảo, Xương cá, Cúc vạn diệp .
Common names : Common Yarrow, Milfoil, Milenrama
Scientist name : Achillea millefolium L.
Synonyms :
Family : Asteraceae / Aster family . Họ Cúc
Group : Dicot
Duration : Perennial
Growth Habit : Forb/herb
Kingdom : Plantae – Plants
Subkingdom : Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
Superdivision : Spermatophyta – Seed plants
Division : Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
Class : Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
Subclass : Asteridae
Order : Asterales
Genus : Achillea L. – yarrow
Species : Achillea millefolium L. – common yarrow
**** www.lrc-hueuni.edu.vn/dongy/show_target.plx?url=/thuocdon…
Cỏ thi, Dương kỳ thảo, Xương cá – Achillea millefolium L., thuộc họ Cúc- Asteraceae.
Mô tả: Cây thảo sống dai, cao 20-40cm hay hơn, có thân mang hoa mọc đứng, khía rãnh dọc chiều dài. Lá không cuống, hẹp, rìa phiến lại chia ra thành rất nhiều các đoạn rất sâu, nhọn và có răng ở mép. Ðầu hoa màu trắng hay hồng, xếp thành ngù rộng ở ngọn; lá bắc thuôn, rất tù, với một cạnh khỏe ở lưng. Quả bế xoan, thuôn dẹp.
Mùa hoa tháng 6-9.
Bộ phận dùng: Toàn cây có hoa – Herba Achilleae.
Nơi sống và thu hái: Cây mọc ở vùng núi cao các tỉnh Lao Cai (Sapa), Sơn La và Lâm Ðồng (Ðà Lạt) trong các savan cỏ trên đường đi, rìa rừng và đất hoang. Thu hái cây lúc có hoa, dùng tươi hay phơi trong râm đến khô.
Thành phần hoá học: Cây chứa tinh dầu, chất nhựa, tanin, phosphat, nitrat, muối kali, acid hữu cơ. Glucosid đắng đã biết là achillein; nó là một glucosid cyanogenetic hay một glucoalcaloide. Còn một alcaloid kết tinh gọi là betonicin.
Tính vị, tác dụng: Vị ngọt, đắng, cay, tính hàn, có ít độc; có tác dụng thanh nhiệt giải độc, lương huyết tiêu thũng, chỉ thống, điều kinh. Trong Tây y, người ta cho nó là chất kháng viêm và chống co thắt, kích thích nội tiết các dịch tiêu hóa (giúp ăn ngon) nó điều hòa và chống co thắt trong chứng rối loạn kinh nguyệt, và còn là chất làm tan sưng. Nhưng với liều cao nó gây chóng mặt và đau đầu.
Công dụng, chỉ định và phối hợp: Ðược dùng chữa: 1. Mệt mỏi toàn thân, ăn uống không ngon, trướng bụng, ỉa chảy; 2. Ho, hen suyễn; 3. Kinh nguyệt không thông, hành kinh đau bụng, rối loạn khi mãn kinh; 4. Thấp khớp, thống phong; 5. Sỏi mật và sỏi niệu; 6. Trĩ, sốt liên miên. Liều dùng 4-12g, dạng thuốc hãm uống hay phối hợp với các vị thuốc khác. Dùng ngoài trị bạch đới, lậu, trĩ, đau khớp, viêm da, viêm mủ da, mụn nhọt, nứt da, cầm máu các vết thương, rắn cắn, chó cắn… lấy cây tươi giã đắp.
**** www.vietgle.vn/trithucviet/detail.aspx?key=millefolium&am…
**** www.botanyvn.com/cnt.asp?param=edir&v=Achillea%20mill…
_________________________________________________________________
**** plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=acmi2
**** health-from-nature.net/Yarrow.html : Click on link to read more, please….
Description: Yarrow is herbaceous, perennial plant, grows up to 1 meter in height. It has one to several fibrous and rough stems, and leaves evenly distributed along the stem. Leaves are larger near the base, bipinnate to tripinnate slightly hairy and silky. Flowers are arranged into flat-topped clusters, with numerous, small and white flower heads. Flowering occurs from May to August.
Parts used: Stem, leaves, flowers.
Useful components: Achilleine, camphor, eugenol, proazulene, sterols, sesquiterpene lactones, tannins, triterpenes.
Medicinal use: Yarrow is considered to be antipyretic, diaphoretic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, carminative, cholagogue, hemostatic and sedative. It has been shown useful in cases of fevers and colds (usually in form of a tincture or infusion). In form of a tea, it is helpful in cases of stomach ulcers, amenorrhea, abdominal cramps, abscesses and diarrhea caused by bacterial infections. It relieves menstrual pains and cramps, and has a sedative effect, and acts as anti-inflammatory in cases of cystitis and urethritis. External use (ointments, salves, powders) is beneficial in treatments of hemorrhoids, nosebleed, wounds and bruises.
Safety: In some cases Yarrow could cause severe allergic reactions. Prolonged use could increase photosensitivity of the skin. Some herbs could react with certain medication. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before consumption of any herb.
**** en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Achillea_millefolium
Achillea millefolium, or yarrow[pronunciation?], is a flowering plant in the family Asteraceae, native to the Northern Hemisphere.[1] In New Mexico and southern Colorado, it is called plumajillo, or "little feather", for the shape of the leaves. In antiquity, yarrow was known as herbal militaris, for its use in staunching the flow of blood from wounds.[2] Other common names for this species include common yarrow, gordaldo, nosebleed plant, old man’s pepper, devil’s nettle, sanguinary, milfoil, soldier’s woundwort, thousand-leaf (as its binomial name affirms), and thousand-seal.
Description
Common yarrow is an erect herbaceous perennial plant that produces one to several stems (0.2 to 1m tall) and has a rhizomatous growth form. Leaves are evenly distributed along the stem, with the leaves near the middle and bottom of the stem being the largest. The leaves have varying degrees of hairiness (pubescence). The leaves are 5–20 cm long, bipinnate or tripinnate, almost feathery, and arranged spirally on the stems. The leaves are cauline and more or less clasping. The inflorescence has 4 to 9 phyllaries and contains ray and disk flowers which are white to pink. There are generally 3 to 8 ray flowers that are ovate to round. Disk flowers range from 15 to 40. The inflorescence is produced in a flat-topped cluster. The fruits are small achenes. Yarrow grows at low or high altitudes, up to 3500m above sea level. The plant commonly flowers from May through June, and is a frequent component in butterfly gardens. Common yarrow is frequently found in the mildly disturbed soil of grasslands and open forests. Active growth occurs in the spring.[1]
In North America, there are both native and introduced genotypes, and both diploid and polyploid plants.[3] The plant has a strong, sweet scent, similar to chrysanthemums
Establishment
Common yarrow is a drought tolerant species of which there are several different ornamental cultivars. Seeds require light for germination, so optimal germination occurs when planted no deeper than ¼ inch (~6 mm). Seeds also require a germination temperature of 18–24 °C (64–75 °F). Common yarrow responds best to soil that is poorly developed and well drained. The plant has a relatively short life, but may be prolonged by dividing the plant every other year, and planting 12 to 18 inches (30–46 cm) apart. Common yarrow is a weedy species and can become invasive.[4] It may suffer from mildew or root rot if not planted in well-drained soil.
There are several varieties and subspecies:
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. millefolium – Europe, Asia
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. alpicola – Rocky Mountains
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. borealis – Arctic regions
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. californica – California
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. occidentalis – North America
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. pacifica – west coast of North America
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. puberula – California
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. rubra – Southern Appalachians
Achillea millefolium subsp. chitralensis – western Himalaya
Achillea millefolium subsp. sudetica – Alps, Carpathians
Cultivation and uses
Yarrow flowers, late summer, Yosemite National Park.
Yarrow leaves
Yarrows can be planted to combat soil erosion due to the plant’s resistance to drought.
The herb is purported to be a diaphoretic, astringent,[5] tonic,[5] stimulant and mild aromatic. It contains isovaleric acid, salicylic acid, asparagin, sterols, flavonoids, bitters, tannins, and coumarins. The plant also has a long history as a powerful ‘healing herb’ used topically for wounds, cuts and abrasions. The genus name Achillea is derived from mythical Greek character, Achilles,[5] who reportedly carried it with his army to treat battle wounds. This medicinal action is also reflected in some of the common names mentioned below, such as Staunchweed and Soldier’s Woundwort.[1]
The stalks of yarrow are dried and used as a randomising agent in I Ching divination.
In the Middle Ages, yarrow was part of a herbal mixture known as gruit used in the flavouring of beer prior to the use of hops.[citation needed] The flowers and leaves are used in making some liquors and bitters.[1]
Old folk names for yarrow include arrowroot, bad man’s plaything, bloodwort, carpenter’s weed, death flower, devil’s nettle, eerie, field hops, gearwe, hundred leaved grass, knight’s milefoil, knyghten, milefolium, milfoil, millefoil, noble yarrow, nosebleed, old man’s mustard, old man’s pepper, sanguinary, seven year’s love, snake’s grass, soldier, soldier’s woundwort, stanch weed, thousand seal, woundwort, yarroway, yerw.
The English name yarrow comes from the Saxon (Old English) word gearwe, which is related to both the Dutch word gerw and the Old High German word garawa.[6]
Yarrow has also been used as a food, and was very popular as a vegetable in the seventeenth century. The younger leaves are said to be a pleasant leaf vegetable when cooked as spinach, or in a soup. Yarrow is sweet with a slight bitter taste. The leaves can also be dried and used as a herb in cooking.
Cultivars
The species is generally too weedy for gardens but cultivars include ‘Paprika’, ‘Cerise Queen’ and ‘Red Beauty’; and the many hybrids of this species designated Achillea x taygetea including ‘Appleblossom’, ‘Fanal’ and ‘Hoffnung’ are useful garden subjects.[7]
Agricultural Use: before the arrival of monocultures of Ryegrass, both grass leys and permanent pasture always contained Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) at a rate of ca. 0.3 kg/ha. At least one of the reasons for Yarrow’s inclusion in grass mixtures was that it is a deep rooted herb, whose leaves are rich in minerals. Thus its inclusion helped to prevent mineral deficiencies in the ruminants to whom it was fed.
Herbal medicine
Yarrow has seen historical use as a medicine, often because of its astringent effects.[1] Decoctions have been used to treat inflammations, such as hemorrhoids, and headaches. Confusingly, it has been said to both stop bleeding and promote it. (Depending on the form it is administered it can do both, which is why when dabbling in using herbs for medicine it is proper to contact a herbalist or other expert. Achillea Millefolium has been used with great success in promoting blood flow, as well as staunching blood flow when properly used.)[citation needed] Infusions of yarrow, taken either internally or externally, are said[by whom?] to speed recovery from severe bruising. The most medicinally active part of the plant is the flowering tops. They also have a mild stimulant effect, and have been used as a snuff. Today, yarrow is valued mainly for its action[clarification needed] in colds and influenza, and also for its effect on the circulatory, digestive, excretory, and urinary systems. In the nineteenth century, yarrow was said to have a greater number of indications than any other herb.[citation needed]
It is believed[by whom?] that anti-allergenic compounds can be extracted from the flowers by steam distillation. The flowers are used to treat various allergic mucus problems, including hay fever. Flowers used in this way are harvested in summer or autumn, and an infusion drunk for upper respiratory phlegm or used externally as a wash for eczema.[citation needed]
The dark blue essential oil, extracted by steam distillation of the flowers, is generally used as an anti-inflammatory[8] or in chest rubs for colds and influenza. [9]
The leaves encourage clotting, so it can be used fresh for nosebleeds.[10] The aerial parts of the plant are used for phlegm conditions, as a bitter digestive tonic to encourage bile flow, and as a diuretic.[11] The aerial parts act as a tonic for the blood, stimulate the circulation, and can be used for high blood pressure. Also useful in menstrual disorders, and as an effective sweating remedy to bring down fevers.[1]
Yarrow intensifies the medicinal action of other herbs taken with it,[12] and helps eliminate toxins from the body[citation needed]. It is reported[13] to be associated with the treatment of the following ailments:
Analgesic[14] Amenorrhea, antiphlogistic,[15][16] anti-inflammatory, bowels, bleeding, blood clots, blood pressure (lowers), blood purifier, blood vessels (tones), catarrh (acute, repertory), colds, chicken pox, circulation, contraceptive (unproven), cystitis, diabetes treatment, digestion (stimulates)gastro-intestinal disorders,[15] choleretic [17] dyspepsia, eczema, fevers, flu, gastritis, glandular system, gum ailments, heartbeat (slow), influenza, insect repellant, inflammation,[18] emmenagogue,[19] internal bleeding, liver (stimulates and regulates), lungs (hemorrhage), measles, menses (suppressed), menorrhagia, menstruation (regulates, relieves pain), nipples (soreness), nosebleeds, piles (bleeding), smallpox, stomach sickness, toothache, thrombosis, ulcers, urinary antiseptic, uterus (tighten and contract),gastroprotective [20] varicose veins, vision, may reduce autoimmune responses.[21]
The salicylic acid derivatives are a component of aspirin, which may account for its use in treating fevers and reducing pain.[citation needed]
Yarrow was also used in traditional Native American herbal medicine. Navajo Indians considered it to be a "life medicine", chewed it for toothaches, and poured an infusion into ears for earaches. Several tribes of the Plains region of the United States used common yarrow. The Pawnee used the stalk for pain relief. The Chippewa used the leaves for headaches by inhaling it in a steam. They also chewed the roots and applied the saliva to their appendages as a stimulant. The Cherokee drank a tea of common yarrow to reduce fever and aid in restful sleep.
Companion planting
Yarrow is considered an especially useful companion plant, not only repelling some bad insects while attracting good, predatory ones, but also improving soil quality. It attracts predatory wasps, which drink the nectar and then use insect pests as food for their larvae. Similarly, it attracts ladybugs and hoverflies. Its leaves are thought to be good fertilizer, and a beneficial additive for compost.
It is also considered directly beneficial to other plants, improving the health of sick plants when grown near them.
Use by birds
Several cavity-nesting birds, including the common starling, use yarrow to line their nests. Experiments conducted on the tree swallow, which does not use yarrow, suggest that adding yarrow to nests inhibits the growth of parasites.[23]
Insecticidal (EO on larvae of the Culicidae mosquito Aedes albopictus
Dangers
In rare cases, yarrow can cause severe allergic skin rashes; prolonged use can increase the skin’s photosensitivity.[25] This can be triggered initially when wet skin comes into contact with cut grass and yarrow together.
In one study aqueous extracts of yarrow impaired the sperm production of laboratory rats.
History
Yarrow was one herb identified at Shanidar IV, a Neanderthal flower burial of northern Iraq, dated c.60,000BCE along with a number of other medicinal herbs.
In popular culture
Stories about yarrow feature in traditional Chinese culture. For example, it is said that it grows around the grave of Confucius. Also, the most authentic way to cast the Yi Jing is to use dried yarrow stalks. The stems are said to be good for divining the future. Chinese proverbs claim that yarrow brightens the eyes and promotes intelligence. Yarrow and tortoiseshell are considered to be lucky in Chinese tradition.[27] Oriental tradition also assured mountain wanderers that where the yarrow grew neither tigers nor wolves nor poisonous plants would be found.
In Classical tradition, Homer tells us that the centaur Chiron, who conveyed herbal secrets to his human pupils, taught Achilles to use yarrow on the battle grounds of Troy.[28] Achilles is said to have used it to stop the bleeding wounds of his soldiers. For centuries it has been carried in battle because of its magical as well as medicinal properties. Western European tradition also connects yarrow with a goddess and a demon. Yarrow was a witching herb, used to summon the devil or drive him away. But it was also a loving herb in the domain of Aphrodite.
Yarrow also featured in British folk customs and beliefs. Yarrow was one of the herbs put in Saxon amulets. These amulets were for protection from everything from blindness to barking dogs. In the Middle Ages, witches were said to use yarrow to make incantations. This may be the source for the common names devil’s nettle, devil’s plaything, and bad man’s plaything. Some people believed that you could determine the devotion of a lover by poking a yarrow leaf up your nostril and twitching the leaf while saying, "Yarroway, yarroway, bear a white blow: if my love loves me, my nose will bleed now". (Yarrow is a nasal irritant, and generally causes the nose to bleed if inserted.) Nursery rhymes say if you put a yarrow sachet under your pillow, you will dream of your own true love. If you dream of cabbages (the leaves do have a similar scent), then death or other serious misfortune will strike. A folk belief states that if you hang a bunch of dried yarrow or yarrow that had been used in wedding decorations over the bed, you can thus ensure a lasting love for at least seven years.
In literature, in the book The Glass Bead Game by Hermann Hesse, Elder Brother uses yarrow stalks to divine the will of the Oracle.
In the science-fiction/fantasy novel Crystal Singer by Anne McCaffrey, Yarrow (or Yarra) is mentioned as the name of a planet where ‘the best beer in the galaxy’ is brewed.
In the manga and anime series Bleach, the insignia for the Eleventh Division is the Yarrow; the meaning behind it is Fight.
Similar species
Other plants with white flowers in large compound umbels that may be confused with Achillea millefolium include: water parsnip, (swamp parsnip, sium suave) and western water hemlock, (Cicuta douglasii, poison hemlock) and spotted water hemlock (Cicuta maculata, spotted water hemlock, spotted parsley, spotted cowbane). Water parsnip and water hemlock have clusters of small white flowers that are shaped like umbrellas, both grow in moist soils. Water parsnip leaves are once compound, and water hemlock leaves are three times compound. Water hemlock has a large swelling at the stem base. All parts of water hemlock are highly poisonous.[29] Other yarrow species have similar foliage and flowers, including: Achillea ageratifolia and Achillea nobilis.
Common Yarrrow, Milfoil , Achillea millefolium….Cỏ thi, Dương kỳ thảo, Xương cá, Cúc vạn diệp….#11
Image by Vietnam Plants & The USA. plants
Taken in Waco city, Texas state, southern of The USA.
The younger leaves are said to be a pleasant leaf vegetable when cooked as spinach, or in a soup
The leaves can also be dried and used as a herb in cooking.
Vietnamese named : Cỏ thi, Dương kỳ thảo, Xương cá, Cúc vạn diệp .
Common names : Common Yarrow, Milfoil, Milenrama
Scientist name : Achillea millefolium L.
Synonyms :
Family : Asteraceae / Aster family . Họ Cúc
Group : Dicot
Duration : Perennial
Growth Habit : Forb/herb
Kingdom : Plantae – Plants
Subkingdom : Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
Superdivision : Spermatophyta – Seed plants
Division : Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
Class : Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
Subclass : Asteridae
Order : Asterales
Genus : Achillea L. – yarrow
Species : Achillea millefolium L. – common yarrow
**** www.lrc-hueuni.edu.vn/dongy/show_target.plx?url=/thuocdon…
Cỏ thi, Dương kỳ thảo, Xương cá – Achillea millefolium L., thuộc họ Cúc- Asteraceae.
Mô tả: Cây thảo sống dai, cao 20-40cm hay hơn, có thân mang hoa mọc đứng, khía rãnh dọc chiều dài. Lá không cuống, hẹp, rìa phiến lại chia ra thành rất nhiều các đoạn rất sâu, nhọn và có răng ở mép. Ðầu hoa màu trắng hay hồng, xếp thành ngù rộng ở ngọn; lá bắc thuôn, rất tù, với một cạnh khỏe ở lưng. Quả bế xoan, thuôn dẹp.
Mùa hoa tháng 6-9.
Bộ phận dùng: Toàn cây có hoa – Herba Achilleae.
Nơi sống và thu hái: Cây mọc ở vùng núi cao các tỉnh Lao Cai (Sapa), Sơn La và Lâm Ðồng (Ðà Lạt) trong các savan cỏ trên đường đi, rìa rừng và đất hoang. Thu hái cây lúc có hoa, dùng tươi hay phơi trong râm đến khô.
Thành phần hoá học: Cây chứa tinh dầu, chất nhựa, tanin, phosphat, nitrat, muối kali, acid hữu cơ. Glucosid đắng đã biết là achillein; nó là một glucosid cyanogenetic hay một glucoalcaloide. Còn một alcaloid kết tinh gọi là betonicin.
Tính vị, tác dụng: Vị ngọt, đắng, cay, tính hàn, có ít độc; có tác dụng thanh nhiệt giải độc, lương huyết tiêu thũng, chỉ thống, điều kinh. Trong Tây y, người ta cho nó là chất kháng viêm và chống co thắt, kích thích nội tiết các dịch tiêu hóa (giúp ăn ngon) nó điều hòa và chống co thắt trong chứng rối loạn kinh nguyệt, và còn là chất làm tan sưng. Nhưng với liều cao nó gây chóng mặt và đau đầu.
Công dụng, chỉ định và phối hợp: Ðược dùng chữa: 1. Mệt mỏi toàn thân, ăn uống không ngon, trướng bụng, ỉa chảy; 2. Ho, hen suyễn; 3. Kinh nguyệt không thông, hành kinh đau bụng, rối loạn khi mãn kinh; 4. Thấp khớp, thống phong; 5. Sỏi mật và sỏi niệu; 6. Trĩ, sốt liên miên. Liều dùng 4-12g, dạng thuốc hãm uống hay phối hợp với các vị thuốc khác. Dùng ngoài trị bạch đới, lậu, trĩ, đau khớp, viêm da, viêm mủ da, mụn nhọt, nứt da, cầm máu các vết thương, rắn cắn, chó cắn… lấy cây tươi giã đắp.
**** www.vietgle.vn/trithucviet/detail.aspx?key=millefolium&am…
**** www.botanyvn.com/cnt.asp?param=edir&v=Achillea%20mill…
_________________________________________________________________
**** plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=acmi2
**** health-from-nature.net/Yarrow.html : Click on link to read more, please….
Description: Yarrow is herbaceous, perennial plant, grows up to 1 meter in height. It has one to several fibrous and rough stems, and leaves evenly distributed along the stem. Leaves are larger near the base, bipinnate to tripinnate slightly hairy and silky. Flowers are arranged into flat-topped clusters, with numerous, small and white flower heads. Flowering occurs from May to August.
Parts used: Stem, leaves, flowers.
Useful components: Achilleine, camphor, eugenol, proazulene, sterols, sesquiterpene lactones, tannins, triterpenes.
Medicinal use: Yarrow is considered to be antipyretic, diaphoretic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, carminative, cholagogue, hemostatic and sedative. It has been shown useful in cases of fevers and colds (usually in form of a tincture or infusion). In form of a tea, it is helpful in cases of stomach ulcers, amenorrhea, abdominal cramps, abscesses and diarrhea caused by bacterial infections. It relieves menstrual pains and cramps, and has a sedative effect, and acts as anti-inflammatory in cases of cystitis and urethritis. External use (ointments, salves, powders) is beneficial in treatments of hemorrhoids, nosebleed, wounds and bruises.
Safety: In some cases Yarrow could cause severe allergic reactions. Prolonged use could increase photosensitivity of the skin. Some herbs could react with certain medication. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before consumption of any herb.
**** en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Achillea_millefolium
Achillea millefolium, or yarrow[pronunciation?], is a flowering plant in the family Asteraceae, native to the Northern Hemisphere.[1] In New Mexico and southern Colorado, it is called plumajillo, or "little feather", for the shape of the leaves. In antiquity, yarrow was known as herbal militaris, for its use in staunching the flow of blood from wounds.[2] Other common names for this species include common yarrow, gordaldo, nosebleed plant, old man’s pepper, devil’s nettle, sanguinary, milfoil, soldier’s woundwort, thousand-leaf (as its binomial name affirms), and thousand-seal.
Description
Common yarrow is an erect herbaceous perennial plant that produces one to several stems (0.2 to 1m tall) and has a rhizomatous growth form. Leaves are evenly distributed along the stem, with the leaves near the middle and bottom of the stem being the largest. The leaves have varying degrees of hairiness (pubescence). The leaves are 5–20 cm long, bipinnate or tripinnate, almost feathery, and arranged spirally on the stems. The leaves are cauline and more or less clasping. The inflorescence has 4 to 9 phyllaries and contains ray and disk flowers which are white to pink. There are generally 3 to 8 ray flowers that are ovate to round. Disk flowers range from 15 to 40. The inflorescence is produced in a flat-topped cluster. The fruits are small achenes. Yarrow grows at low or high altitudes, up to 3500m above sea level. The plant commonly flowers from May through June, and is a frequent component in butterfly gardens. Common yarrow is frequently found in the mildly disturbed soil of grasslands and open forests. Active growth occurs in the spring.[1]
In North America, there are both native and introduced genotypes, and both diploid and polyploid plants.[3] The plant has a strong, sweet scent, similar to chrysanthemums
Establishment
Common yarrow is a drought tolerant species of which there are several different ornamental cultivars. Seeds require light for germination, so optimal germination occurs when planted no deeper than ¼ inch (~6 mm). Seeds also require a germination temperature of 18–24 °C (64–75 °F). Common yarrow responds best to soil that is poorly developed and well drained. The plant has a relatively short life, but may be prolonged by dividing the plant every other year, and planting 12 to 18 inches (30–46 cm) apart. Common yarrow is a weedy species and can become invasive.[4] It may suffer from mildew or root rot if not planted in well-drained soil.
There are several varieties and subspecies:
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. millefolium – Europe, Asia
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. alpicola – Rocky Mountains
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. borealis – Arctic regions
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. californica – California
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. occidentalis – North America
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. pacifica – west coast of North America
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. puberula – California
Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium var. rubra – Southern Appalachians
Achillea millefolium subsp. chitralensis – western Himalaya
Achillea millefolium subsp. sudetica – Alps, Carpathians
Cultivation and uses
Yarrow flowers, late summer, Yosemite National Park.
Yarrow leaves
Yarrows can be planted to combat soil erosion due to the plant’s resistance to drought.
The herb is purported to be a diaphoretic, astringent,[5] tonic,[5] stimulant and mild aromatic. It contains isovaleric acid, salicylic acid, asparagin, sterols, flavonoids, bitters, tannins, and coumarins. The plant also has a long history as a powerful ‘healing herb’ used topically for wounds, cuts and abrasions. The genus name Achillea is derived from mythical Greek character, Achilles,[5] who reportedly carried it with his army to treat battle wounds. This medicinal action is also reflected in some of the common names mentioned below, such as Staunchweed and Soldier’s Woundwort.[1]
The stalks of yarrow are dried and used as a randomising agent in I Ching divination.
In the Middle Ages, yarrow was part of a herbal mixture known as gruit used in the flavouring of beer prior to the use of hops.[citation needed] The flowers and leaves are used in making some liquors and bitters.[1]
Old folk names for yarrow include arrowroot, bad man’s plaything, bloodwort, carpenter’s weed, death flower, devil’s nettle, eerie, field hops, gearwe, hundred leaved grass, knight’s milefoil, knyghten, milefolium, milfoil, millefoil, noble yarrow, nosebleed, old man’s mustard, old man’s pepper, sanguinary, seven year’s love, snake’s grass, soldier, soldier’s woundwort, stanch weed, thousand seal, woundwort, yarroway, yerw.
The English name yarrow comes from the Saxon (Old English) word gearwe, which is related to both the Dutch word gerw and the Old High German word garawa.[6]
Yarrow has also been used as a food, and was very popular as a vegetable in the seventeenth century. The younger leaves are said to be a pleasant leaf vegetable when cooked as spinach, or in a soup. Yarrow is sweet with a slight bitter taste. The leaves can also be dried and used as a herb in cooking.
Cultivars
The species is generally too weedy for gardens but cultivars include ‘Paprika’, ‘Cerise Queen’ and ‘Red Beauty’; and the many hybrids of this species designated Achillea x taygetea including ‘Appleblossom’, ‘Fanal’ and ‘Hoffnung’ are useful garden subjects.[7]
Agricultural Use: before the arrival of monocultures of Ryegrass, both grass leys and permanent pasture always contained Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) at a rate of ca. 0.3 kg/ha. At least one of the reasons for Yarrow’s inclusion in grass mixtures was that it is a deep rooted herb, whose leaves are rich in minerals. Thus its inclusion helped to prevent mineral deficiencies in the ruminants to whom it was fed.
Herbal medicine
Yarrow has seen historical use as a medicine, often because of its astringent effects.[1] Decoctions have been used to treat inflammations, such as hemorrhoids, and headaches. Confusingly, it has been said to both stop bleeding and promote it. (Depending on the form it is administered it can do both, which is why when dabbling in using herbs for medicine it is proper to contact a herbalist or other expert. Achillea Millefolium has been used with great success in promoting blood flow, as well as staunching blood flow when properly used.)[citation needed] Infusions of yarrow, taken either internally or externally, are said[by whom?] to speed recovery from severe bruising. The most medicinally active part of the plant is the flowering tops. They also have a mild stimulant effect, and have been used as a snuff. Today, yarrow is valued mainly for its action[clarification needed] in colds and influenza, and also for its effect on the circulatory, digestive, excretory, and urinary systems. In the nineteenth century, yarrow was said to have a greater number of indications than any other herb.[citation needed]
It is believed[by whom?] that anti-allergenic compounds can be extracted from the flowers by steam distillation. The flowers are used to treat various allergic mucus problems, including hay fever. Flowers used in this way are harvested in summer or autumn, and an infusion drunk for upper respiratory phlegm or used externally as a wash for eczema.[citation needed]
The dark blue essential oil, extracted by steam distillation of the flowers, is generally used as an anti-inflammatory[8] or in chest rubs for colds and influenza. [9]
The leaves encourage clotting, so it can be used fresh for nosebleeds.[10] The aerial parts of the plant are used for phlegm conditions, as a bitter digestive tonic to encourage bile flow, and as a diuretic.[11] The aerial parts act as a tonic for the blood, stimulate the circulation, and can be used for high blood pressure. Also useful in menstrual disorders, and as an effective sweating remedy to bring down fevers.[1]
Yarrow intensifies the medicinal action of other herbs taken with it,[12] and helps eliminate toxins from the body[citation needed]. It is reported[13] to be associated with the treatment of the following ailments:
Analgesic[14] Amenorrhea, antiphlogistic,[15][16] anti-inflammatory, bowels, bleeding, blood clots, blood pressure (lowers), blood purifier, blood vessels (tones), catarrh (acute, repertory), colds, chicken pox, circulation, contraceptive (unproven), cystitis, diabetes treatment, digestion (stimulates)gastro-intestinal disorders,[15] choleretic [17] dyspepsia, eczema, fevers, flu, gastritis, glandular system, gum ailments, heartbeat (slow), influenza, insect repellant, inflammation,[18] emmenagogue,[19] internal bleeding, liver (stimulates and regulates), lungs (hemorrhage), measles, menses (suppressed), menorrhagia, menstruation (regulates, relieves pain), nipples (soreness), nosebleeds, piles (bleeding), smallpox, stomach sickness, toothache, thrombosis, ulcers, urinary antiseptic, uterus (tighten and contract),gastroprotective [20] varicose veins, vision, may reduce autoimmune responses.[21]
The salicylic acid derivatives are a component of aspirin, which may account for its use in treating fevers and reducing pain.[citation needed]
Yarrow was also used in traditional Native American herbal medicine. Navajo Indians considered it to be a "life medicine", chewed it for toothaches, and poured an infusion into ears for earaches. Several tribes of the Plains region of the United States used common yarrow. The Pawnee used the stalk for pain relief. The Chippewa used the leaves for headaches by inhaling it in a steam. They also chewed the roots and applied the saliva to their appendages as a stimulant. The Cherokee drank a tea of common yarrow to reduce fever and aid in restful sleep.
Companion planting
Yarrow is considered an especially useful companion plant, not only repelling some bad insects while attracting good, predatory ones, but also improving soil quality. It attracts predatory wasps, which drink the nectar and then use insect pests as food for their larvae. Similarly, it attracts ladybugs and hoverflies. Its leaves are thought to be good fertilizer, and a beneficial additive for compost.
It is also considered directly beneficial to other plants, improving the health of sick plants when grown near them.
Use by birds
Several cavity-nesting birds, including the common starling, use yarrow to line their nests. Experiments conducted on the tree swallow, which does not use yarrow, suggest that adding yarrow to nests inhibits the growth of parasites.[23]
Insecticidal (EO on larvae of the Culicidae mosquito Aedes albopictus
Dangers
In rare cases, yarrow can cause severe allergic skin rashes; prolonged use can increase the skin’s photosensitivity.[25] This can be triggered initially when wet skin comes into contact with cut grass and yarrow together.
In one study aqueous extracts of yarrow impaired the sperm production of laboratory rats.
History
Yarrow was one herb identified at Shanidar IV, a Neanderthal flower burial of northern Iraq, dated c.60,000BCE along with a number of other medicinal herbs.
In popular culture
Stories about yarrow feature in traditional Chinese culture. For example, it is said that it grows around the grave of Confucius. Also, the most authentic way to cast the Yi Jing is to use dried yarrow stalks. The stems are said to be good for divining the future. Chinese proverbs claim that yarrow brightens the eyes and promotes intelligence. Yarrow and tortoiseshell are considered to be lucky in Chinese tradition.[27] Oriental tradition also assured mountain wanderers that where the yarrow grew neither tigers nor wolves nor poisonous plants would be found.
In Classical tradition, Homer tells us that the centaur Chiron, who conveyed herbal secrets to his human pupils, taught Achilles to use yarrow on the battle grounds of Troy.[28] Achilles is said to have used it to stop the bleeding wounds of his soldiers. For centuries it has been carried in battle because of its magical as well as medicinal properties. Western European tradition also connects yarrow with a goddess and a demon. Yarrow was a witching herb, used to summon the devil or drive him away. But it was also a loving herb in the domain of Aphrodite.
Yarrow also featured in British folk customs and beliefs. Yarrow was one of the herbs put in Saxon amulets. These amulets were for protection from everything from blindness to barking dogs. In the Middle Ages, witches were said to use yarrow to make incantations. This may be the source for the common names devil’s nettle, devil’s plaything, and bad man’s plaything. Some people believed that you could determine the devotion of a lover by poking a yarrow leaf up your nostril and twitching the leaf while saying, "Yarroway, yarroway, bear a white blow: if my love loves me, my nose will bleed now". (Yarrow is a nasal irritant, and generally causes the nose to bleed if inserted.) Nursery rhymes say if you put a yarrow sachet under your pillow, you will dream of your own true love. If you dream of cabbages (the leaves do have a similar scent), then death or other serious misfortun