Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) organic from Hungary

The Latin name for Yarrow expresses many things about this useful plant.  Originally a native of Asia, the bush can grow up to two feet high with lacy looking leaves and clusters of tiny yellow or white flowers.  These clusters give it the name 'millefolium,' or 'many flowers.'  The name 'Achillea' comes from the Greek warrior Achilles.  It is said that he used this herb to heal spear wounds during the Trojan war.  Indeed, the ancient Greeks used Yarrow frequently as an antiseptic for just about any wound.  It was well-known to the Crusaders as well, who used it to stop bleeding.

The essential oil of Yarrow contains the chemicals camphor, borneol, sabinene, and y-terpinene among others.  However, the chemical chamazulene is the one which gives Yarrow essential oil many of its healing qualities as well as its deep blue color.  Yarrow oil can be used for arthritis and rheumatism.  It can be blended with Clary Sage in a massage oil used on the belly for menstrual cramps, PMS, and irregular menstruation.  Blended with Lemon and Rosemary in a massage oil, it can be used to clear lymph and deal with many complex issues such as varicose veins, gout, hemorrhoids, neuralgia, and tendonitis.  Yarrow is well known for bringing down fevers and easing discomfort from cold, flu, and upper respiratory infections.  It is also said to relieve headaches.

Yarrow is very effective at dealing with skin problems.  It can be used to treat acne, scars, stretch marks, burns, and rashes.  It is also said to stimulate hair growth.  A good mixture for the skin is 3 drops of Yarrow, 20 drops of Lavender and 5 drops of Sandalwood mixed into a good carrier oil like Jojoba, Sesame, or Hazelnut.  Keep in mind that a small amount of Yarrow oil added to any mixture will turn it blue in color and will be quite enough to have an effect.

The emotional realm is an area where Yarrow can have great impact.  It calms the nerves and is excellent for stress, especially stress caused by repressed anger and bitterness.  A drop of Yarrow placed on a tissue and kept near the bedside can help with insomnia and anxiety.  This soothing scent can be used to ease depression and clear the mind of confusion as well.

Spiritually, Yarrow balances yin and yang.  It brings equilibrium to the spirit and harmony to the mind.  It stimulates the intuition, bringing instructive dreams and perspective on life's problems.

Here at Kamala's Own, you will find Yarrow essential oil as an ingredient in our aromatherapy blends Healing, Compassion, and Flow among others.

Use only in very small quantities.  This oil is a dark blue in color and will stain skin if it is not well diluted.

Always dilute your essential oils in an unscented carrier oil like Sesame or Jojoba. Do not take essential oils internally. Always store essential oils out of heat and sunlight. Keep essential oils away from children and pregnant women.

All information in this description is copyright Kamala’s Own LLC. Please ask for permission to reprint it. This description is not medical advice and the information herein comes from personal experience, research, and folklore. If you believe you are ill, consult an M.D. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any medical condition. Nothing here has been evaluated by the FDA.