Yarrow HerbA flowering plant, belonging to the family Asteraceae, Yarrow herb has many medicinal properties. Its other common names include sanguinary, devil’s nettle, gordalo etc. It is a drought tolerant plant and many species of this herb are found.Traditionally it has been used as a medicine primarily due to its astringent effects. An ointment prepared from yarrow was applied to wounds to stop them from bleeding. Due to its ability to stop bleeding, it has been named ‘nosebleed’. In early times, decoctions of this plant were used to treat inflammations, particularly piles. Native Americans used to pour an infusion of this herb into the ears in order to sooth earaches. It's a versatile herb and it has many medicinal properties beneficial to heal various ailments. A leaf of the plant when held against a wound helps stop bleeding. An infusion of this herb helps to break fever and is also effective for a speedy recovery from bruising.Research shows a tea brewed from its leaves, peppermint and elder flowers is very effective in fighting flu and cold. It is also beneficial in case of mild cystitis. Today it is mainly valued for its effectiveness in fighting cold and flu, influenza. This herb is also beneficial for the urinary, excretory, circulatory and digestive systems. Chewing on the raw leaves is also said to prevent toothache. The aerial parts of this herb are used for phlegm conditions. It is used as a diuretic in the form of digestive tonic. The aerial parts are also used as a tonic for the blood, to improve circulation and also control high blood pressure. The tincture of this herb is useful in menstrual disorders. Diluted tincture is also used to sooth varicose veins. Doctors also prescribe this herb for cardiovascular complaints. This herb along with great medicinal uses is also an ornamental plant. The attractive flower heads present in varied colors such as white, pink, yellow, gold etc. make up for striking dried flowers, which are used in decorations and arrangements. They are also used in pot-pourri. Due to its many beneficial properties, This is an important ingredient in herbal cosmetics. It is believed to benefit other plants when planted near them. Sick plants are seen to recover soon when planted in proximity with yarrow plants. It is considered a very good companion plant since it repels all insects and attracts useful, predatory insects. Yarrow also greatly improves soil quality. The leaves this herb are very good fertilizers and are beneficial in compost.
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