Yarrow, My Friend

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is in heavy bloom in the meadows around the ranch. When many yarrow plants bloom in a meadow it looks to me as if a fine sheet of lace has been placed gently over the meadow. Yarrow has a very recognizable, pungent smell. When lying in a field of yarrow the smell will surround you and swallow you up. The smell, I think, could be described as medicinal and it's very strong especially if you crush up the leaves or steams.

Yarrow has many medicinal properties. A poultice of the leaves can be used to help heal and disinfect wounds such as cuts and scrapes. It is also good for normalizing the digestive and circulatory systems. In addition it has been used in remedies for for fevers and colds. It is often taken in the form of a tea. You can use fresh or dried plant parts to make a tea.

Yarrow plant

The fine, feathery leaves of the yarrow plant.

Yarrow blossoms

A bouquet of yarrow blossoms