Yarrow

"… Achyllis founde this herbe, and with it he heled his men that were wounded with yron … "

Banckes’ Herbal, 1525

Yarrow, or milfoil, is a hardy perennial growing to 20cm. It has green-grey, feathery leaves with fine serrations. The name Milfoil is derived from the Latin for “thousand leaved”. Flowers are white, red or yellow (harder to find) and stand above the leaves, up to 30cm tall.

This is said to be the herb that Achilles used to treat the wounds of his troops. A decoction (liquid made from boiling leaves) of Yarrow has been used throughout history as a wash for all kinds of wounds and sores, including chapped skin.

Excellent plant for the compost bin. A few sprigs will aid in the breakdown of compost. Be warned! Use only a few sprigs as too much will SLOW the breakdown!

Companion Planting:

Plant with everything. All plants tend to benefit from being near this plant. Yarrow increases the aromatic qualities of medicinal and fragrant plants. Also helps other plant to resist disease.

Growing:

Use root cuttings to establish, then spreads by root growth and self-seeding. Loves full sun and may grow in semi-shade. This is a tough plant that’s hard to kill! Drought tolerant, frost resistant and bug resistant.

Harvesting:

Gather leaves and flowers throughout the year. Trim back during the year to tame the root growth.

Culinary Use:

Used in teas, sweetened with honey for colds and flu (though not most people's cup of tea). Substitute for hops in brewing beer.

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