Yarrow

Identity

Common Name

Yarrow

Scientific Name

Achillea millefolium

Botanical Family

Asteraceae

Native Region

Northern Hemisphere temperate regions

Cultivation Regions

Northern Hemisphere (worldwide)

Plant Parts Used

Aerial parts, Flowers

Synonyms

Milfoil, Achillea, Wound Wort

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

An upright perennial 30-90 cm tall with finely divided feathery fern-like leaves (hence 'millefolium') and flat-topped clusters (corymbs) of tiny white (sometimes pink) flowers that bloom through summer.

Historical Background

Named for the hero Achilles, who by legend used yarrow to staunch soldiers' wounds at Troy, yarrow has been a beloved European and Indigenous healing herb for millennia — a 'wound herb,' fever tea, and bitter digestive all in one. Its feathery leaves gave it the epithet millefolium (thousand-leaf).

Earliest recorded uses: Greek tradition — named for Achilles, said to be used on the battlefield to staunch wounds.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Herbal, bitter, slightly sweet, aromatic

Tea Information

Research Summary

Yarrow has a long tradition as a wound herb, fever tea, and digestive bitter. Clinical evidence is insufficient; traditional uses are not well substantiated by trials, and it is not a treatment for fever, wounds, or menstrual disorders.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources