Yarrow is a perennial plant that grows to be about three feet tall with white flower heads. Its many leaves, or “thousand leaves,” as its species name claims grow on either side of the stem. A great benefit to yarrow is that all of its parts can be used for certain medical purposes, and they have been since what may be the beginning of the human race. The finding of a Neanderthal grave held yarrow within it, Greek legend cites yarrow as being an ointment used in the Trojan War, and the traditional European and Asian cultures have been known to take advantage of yarrow in their healing methods.

Yarrow is known as a treatment for the common cold and influenza. Its essential oils can be used for the purposes of aromatherapy in order to alleviate cold symptoms. It easily alleviates the inflammation found in the nasal and respiratory tracts and it can provide relief from the cold and flu as an over-the-counter extract when combined with other herbs.

Yarrow is also a pain reliever for many physical afflictions. It contains sterols and triterpenes, which stop the enzymes that cause pain from forming and accelerates the healing process. Yarrow can also prevent potential infections in wounds by eliminating bacteria, funguses and viruses. Whenever treating a wound through the use of yarrow it is essential to thoroughly clean the area first. Yarrow has the ability to quickly stop blood flow, so neglecting to clean it creates the risk of trapping dirt and other harmful substances inside the injury.

Spasms can lead to dangerous effects. They can cause harmful and continuous coughing fits, which lead to convulsions. Intestinal spasms have the possibility of intense abdominal pain and muscle cramps. In order to stop these afflictions the contractions must be relaxed. Yarrow essential oils are a huge contributor to reducing spasms in the muscles, nerves and intestines.

Yarrow allows for the treatment of many other various health issues. It can lower fever, treat diarrhea, prevent insomnia, relieve menstrual pains, remove gases from the intestines, flush toxins from within the body, and strengthen the eye muscles that bring objects into focus.

Yarrow can be found in different forms. It is effective in teas and aromatherapy oils, and can be purchased in bulk from herbal shops. This herb has been proven to be effective for thousands and thousands of years and in this case tradition should be enough to inspire its consistent use for ailments. However, there are some who should avoid using yarrow. Women who are prone to heavy periods or have pelvic inflammatory disease, men who are intent on being future fathers (the herb stopped sperm production in lab mice), or those suffering from gallstones should all look to other natural healing solutions. Additionally, women who are pregnant should not take yarrow internally unless told to do so by an experienced herbalist.