One of the first and last plants of the season…Yarrow
There is nothing like a fresh picked flower arrangement to brighten the kitchen table…and my day! One of the great things about growing a garden full of herbs is not only are they wonderful additions to our meals and medicine cabinet, but they produce gorgeous flowers when toward the end of the growing season. Many of same herbs that provide nutrients in May and June, then provide beautiful centerpieces in August and September. The tall, prominent, purple and white flowers of basil coupled with the tiny, dainty, white flowers of cilantro are wonderful additions to a vase full of sunflowers and zinnias (which are also edible!). But standing above all the rest of the herbal flowers is Yarrow. While yarrow flowers come in many colors, the most commonly found is white. The flowers appear like miniature daisies grouped together in a flattened, loose flowerhead. The flower of the yarrow plant (Achillea millefolium) is harvested not only for its beauty, but mostly for its medicinal value. Among its many known uses, yarrow can aid in wound care, help staunch bleeding (such as a nosebleed), and aid digestion. The entire plant, including flowers, leaves, and roots, can be used in applications. Yarrow was once called Soldier Woundwort due to its wide use in battlefield hospitals to dress wounds (including use by the Greek hero Achilles).1 Although it is most commonly known for its anti-microbial benefits and use in first aid, it can also be taken internally to address high blood pressure or digestion issues.2 For internal use, the flowers and leaves are often used to make a tea or tincture. (Because of it stimulating properties, use during pregnancy is not recommended.) See the link below for a tincture recipe using yarrow. This versatile, easy to grow flowering herb is a must in the herb garden or flower bed. The yarrow plant is a must in your line up of garden favorites!
Jessica
1. A Modern Herbal | Yarrow (botanical.com)
2.Medicinal Uses for Yarrow—The Homestead Herb - Amy K. Fewell (thefewellhomestead.com) (tincture recipe)
*I am not a medical professional. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice.