The first part of its botanical name, Achillea millefolium, refers to the tradition that Achilles brought this plant to posterity on the advice of Chiron the Centaur to staunch the blood of his soldiers. This ability to clot blood also gave it its country name of ‘nosebleed’ as the feathery (hence the second part of its botanical name) leaves were stuffed into the nostril to stop the bleeding.

It can lower high blood pressure. This blood friendly aspect also renders it useful for heavy periods, varicose veins and piles. It is a gift for the digestive system by improving absorption, healing ulcers and toning the bowel. It is also helpful for the respiratory system with the tea drunk to battle colds and ‘flu.

Long associated with divination, folk traditions of the west used yarrow to identify future spouses whereas the Chinese still use yarrow stalks for I Ching today.

This information is purely for the interest of the reader and should not be taken as medical advice. If you wish to utilise herbal remedies, please consult a qualified herbalist before doing so.