November 7, 2025
The warrior’s shield. A plant of protection, wound healing, and sacred balance — both in battle and in blood.
Imagine walking through a wild European meadow where lace-like flowers sway in the wind. Yarrow is there — subtle but powerful. Known for its resilience and wide-ranging benefits, yarrow has been one of Europe’s most trusted healing herbs for centuries.
Yarrow has a legendary history. It’s named after Achilles, the Greek hero said to have used it on the battlefield to staunch wounds. Yarrow was used also by Germanic tribes for the treatment of battle wounds. European folk medicine embraced it as a remedy for everything from fevers and digestive issues to menstrual irregularities and infections. It’s especially valued for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and circulatory properties. Yarrow was used to regulate blood flow — both to stop excessive bleeding and to stimulate circulation when needed. Women used it for heavy periods, cramps, and to balance the menstrual cycle. It also played a role in fevers, helping the body to sweat out toxins.
Preparation Methods:
Yarrow can be brewed as tea, applied as a poultice, infused in oil, or taken as a tincture. The flowers are often included in herbal blends for skin, digestion, and immunity.
Cultural Curiosities:
In Celtic and Nordic traditions, yarrow was used in divination and protection rituals. Hung in doorways or carried in pouches, it was believed to ward off negative energy and encourage love. It also played a role in bridal wreaths and midsummer festivals.
Precautions & Contraindications: Use caution in pregnancy. May cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to the Asteraceae family. Avoid in large doses if on blood-thinning medications.
How to Make Yarrow Tea
Yarrow flowers, leaves and stems can be used to make a medicinal tea. You can use either the fresh or dried flower/leaves.
Yarrow tea can taste bitter so you can use honey to take the edge off if needed.
Many tea recipes include lemon, which gives a nice boost of vitamin C. Try also combining yarrow with echinacea, elder flower, ginger and peppermint for additional respiratory and digestive-soothing effects.
Here’s a homemade yarrow tea recipe …
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon dried yarrow or 3 fresh leaves
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1 lemon slice (optional)
Directions
- Steep yarrow in boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove leaves if desired.
- Add honey and/or lemon juice if desired.
- Stir.