Achillea Millefolium — quick answer

Achillea Millefolium (Achillea millefolium) is a garden plant, a member of the Asteraceae family. It is traditionally associated with Wounds, Gastrointestinal ulcers, Inflammation, Colds. Reported toxicity level: Non-toxic. Evidence level: traditional. ✓ Ancient wound-healing herb with hemostatic properties. ✓ Exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. ✓ Supports digestive health and menstrual regularity. ✓ Important contraindications include…

✓ Hemostatic Properties — Yarrow is traditionally renowned for its ability to staunch bleeding, a property attributed to its volatile oils and alkaloids that promote coagulation. ✓ Anti-inflammatory Action — Studies indicate that compounds like apigenin and sesquiterpene lactones inhibit cyclooxygenase and prostaglandin E2, reducing inflammation. ✓ Antioxidant Activity — Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, Achillea millefolium acts as a strong antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress. ✓ Antispasmodic Effects — It helps relieve smooth muscle spasms, particularly beneficial for…

What is Achillea Millefolium used for?

✓ Hemostatic Properties — Yarrow is traditionally renowned for its ability to staunch bleeding, a property attributed to its volatile oils and alkaloids that promote coagulation. ✓ Anti-inflammatory Action — Studies indicate that compounds like apigenin and sesquiterpene lactones inhibit cyclooxygenase and…

How is Achillea Millefolium used?

✓ Herbal Infusion (Tea) — Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried Yarrow flowers and leaves in hot water for 10-15 minutes; used for colds, fevers, and digestive issues. ✓ Tincture — A concentrated alcohol extract of the aerial parts; typically taken in drops for systemic effects like immune support or menstrual regulation. ✓…

Is Achillea Millefolium safe?

✓ Pregnancy and Lactation — Absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential emmenagogue effects; use during lactation should be avoided or done under strict medical supervision. ✓ Asteraceae Allergy — Individuals with known allergies to plants in the daisy family (Asteraceae/Compositae) should avoid…

Does Achillea Millefolium have side effects?

✓ Allergic Reactions — Individuals sensitive to the Asteraceae family (ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums) may experience allergic contact dermatitis or other allergic responses. ✓ Photosensitivity — Topical application of Yarrow, especially the essential oil, can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, leading to…

How do you grow Achillea Millefolium?

✓ Soil Preference — Thrives in well-drained, average to poor soils; tolerates a wide range of pH levels. ✓ Sunlight Requirements — Prefers full sun (at least 6 hours daily) for optimal growth and flowering, though it can tolerate light shade. ✓ Watering Regime — Drought-tolerant once established; water moderately…

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Reliable Achillea Millefolium Garden Plant for Outdoor Beauty

Achillea millefolium

Medicinal
AsteraceaeNorthern Hemisphere
North America
7 images
0

Care Disclaimer: Plant care recommendations are general guidelines based on common growing conditions. Individual results may vary based on your local environment, climate, and care routine. If your plant is toxic, keep it away from children and pets, and consult a veterinarian if accidental ingestion occurs.

1.Achillea Millefolium — Overview

Achillea Millefolium — Main Image

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as Yarrow, is a resilient perennial herbaceous flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. This adaptable species naturally inhabits temperate zones across the Northern Hemisphere, including Asia, Europe, and North America. Its ecological versatility and hardiness allow it to flourish in diverse niches such as open meadows, fertile pastures, and disturbed landscapes.

Yarrow is characterized by its intricately dissected, fern-like leaves arranged alternately along its stem, a feature that inspired its species name 'millefolium,' meaning 'thousand-leaved.' The plant typically grows 20 to 100 centimeters tall, producing dense, flattened clusters (known as corymbs) of small, composite flowers. These blooms, predominantly white but also found in shades of pink or yellow, appear from late spring through late fall.

Historically, Yarrow has been highly valued for its potent hemostatic capabilities, earning it epithets like 'Soldier's Woundwort' and 'Herbal Militaris.' Its legendary use dates back to ancient Greek mythology, where the hero Achilles reputedly used it to staunch soldiers' wounds. Beyond military associations, Yarrow has been a pivotal remedy in various traditional medicine systems:

• European folk medicine: Used to relieve colds, fevers, digestive discomforts, and as a diuretic.

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Valued for arresting bleeding, invigorating circulation, and easing pain.

• Ayurvedic practice: Applied for properties that pacify Pitta and balance Kapha, especially for internal hemorrhage or febrile states.

• Unani medicine: Prescribed for conditions such as hemorrhoids, menstrual irregularities, and urinary tract infections.

Culturally, Yarrow symbolizes love, protection, and divination, frequently appearing in ancient rituals and charms. When crushed, its complex array of volatile compounds gives the plant its distinctive, often pungent, aroma.

1.1.Achillea Millefolium — Key Features

  • Perennial herbaceous flowering — Perennial herbaceous flowering plant.
  • Finely dissected, fern — like leaves.
  • Produces flattened clusters — Produces flattened clusters (corymbs) of white, pink, or yellow flowers.
  • Renowned for potent hemostatic (blood — stopping) properties.
  • Possesses significant anti — inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
  • Historically utilized in — Historically utilized in diverse traditional medicine systems globally.
  • Contains a rich — Contains a rich array of essential oils, flavonoids, and sesquiterpene lactones.
  • Known for potential — Known for potential interactions with Cytochrome P450 enzymes.
  • Adapts to various — Adapts to various temperate habitats across the Northern Hemisphere.
  • Characterized by a — Characterized by a distinct, aromatic foliage when crushed.

1.2.Achillea Millefolium — Quick Summary

  • Ancient wound-healing herb with hemostatic properties.
  • Exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.
  • Supports digestive health and menstrual regularity.
  • Important contraindications include pregnancy and Asteraceae allergies.
  • Potential for drug interactions, especially with CYP450-metabolized medications.
  • A versatile perennial belonging to the Asteraceae family.

2.Achillea Millefolium — Scientific Identity

3.Achillea Millefolium — Categories & Tags

4.Achillea Millefolium — Appearance & Identification

5.Achillea Millefolium — Water Requirements

  • Soil Preference — Thrives in well-drained, average to poor soils; tolerates a wide range of pH levels.
  • Sunlight Requirements — Prefers full sun (at least 6 hours daily) for optimal growth and flowering, though it can tolerate light shade.
  • Watering Regime — Drought-tolerant once established; water moderately until established, then only during prolonged dry periods.
  • Propagation Techniques — Easily propagated by seed in spring or fall, or by division of rhizomes in spring.
  • Hardiness Zones — Hardy in USDA zones 3-9, adapting to various climates.
  • Pest and Disease Resistance — Generally robust and resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance plant.
  • Harvesting — Aerial parts (leaves, flowers) are typically harvested when the plant is in full bloom, usually late spring to early fall.
  • Maintenance — Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding; divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.

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Written by: Flora Medical Global Editorial Team

Reviewed by: Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel

Last Updated: June 28, 2026