Yarrow

Also known as: Yarrow’s species name is Achillea millefolium.  

It is also commonly called Old Man's Pepper, Soldier's Woundwort, Bloodwort, Herbe Militaris, Thousand Weed, Nose Bleed, Carpenter's Weed, Staunchweed, Sanguinary, Devil's Nettle, Devil's Plaything, Bad Man's Plaything, Milfoil, Knight's Milfoil, or Yarroway.

Home Remedies using Yarrow Essential Oil:

Essential oil of yarrow is extracted from dried yarrow herb, via steam distillation. 

It is grown in gardens all over Madeira, but, because of the tendency of yarrow to take over a garden and be difficult to control or eradicate, it is considered by many to be a scourge to be gotten rid of before it gets out of control.

Benefits of Yarrow Essential Oil:

Yarrow and the effects on the mind:

Essential oil of yarrow is known for its calming effect.  It has been noted to dissipate anger, and soothe irritability.

Yarrow and the effects on the body:

Yarrow essential oil has been effectively used to reduce swelling and redness. 

It has been used on a myriad of female complaints such as pain, excessive or excessively light menstruation.

Yarrow essential oil has been effective in hair care. 

It has helped shrink and relieve hemorrhoids, help lower high blood pressure, relieve symptoms of poor digestion, relieve migraines, and to lower high body temperatures. 

It has also been used on cuts, abrasions, and other skin disorders.  It has been known to reduce or eliminate scarring and stretch marks.

As a part of an aromatherapy regime, Yarrow essential oil can help alleviate stress. Stress is known to exacerbate digestive disorders and sleeplessness, and yarrow root essential oil therapy can be beneficial for both.  

When blended with other essential oils and/or carrier oil, a few drops of yarrow oil may be added to a warm bath to help with such things as aching legs due to varicose veins, piles, menstrual problems such as bloating and cramping, stress and related conditions (such as high blood pressure and digestive difficulties) and various skin problems.

Side Effects of Yarrow Essential Oil:

Yarrow essential oil has been shown to be toxic to nerve tissue and should not be applied undiluted. 

As with other essential oils, yarrow should not be consumed without an endorsement from an herbologist or aromatherapy practitioner. 

Yarrow oil should not be used if you have any major health issues such as epilepsy, cancer, pregnancy, or other conditions.  Consult a physician and herbologist for further information. 

All essential oils should be used with caution in young children.  Conduct a skin test prior to use to check for an allergy, and monitor during use to watch for a sensitivity.