Featured Herb: Yarrow
Nyx WhyteRaven
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Yarrow, also known as Achillea Millefolium has a rich history of medicinal and magical uses alike. The name Achillea Millefolium is derived from the belief that Yarrow was used by the Greek hero Achilles to heal the wounds of his men on the battlefield. Yarrow can be found growing wild or it can be cultivated as part of a magical or healing garden. An excellent companion plant in any garden, Yarrow not only repels detrimental insects but it also attracts beneficial ones. Yarrow requires minimal care and is drought hardy, and it also aids in disease resistance in the plants around it.
Some of the medicinal uses of Yarrow include: a styptic for external wounds, a tea for internal bleeding, and an anti inflammatory for inflamed cuts or wounds. Yarrow tea may also be used to reduce fevers, stress, abdominal and menstrual cramps as well as to keep away cold or flu if used at the first sign of symptoms. As a tonic, Yarrow is used as a scalp rinse and facial rinse for clarifying skin and scalp. Using the Tonic is said to encourage hair growth when used on the scalp. Fresh Yarrows leaves can be used to stem nosebleeds or chewed to relieve the pain of toothaches. Yarrow tea or tincture can be used as a natural insect repellant on yourself, pets or plants.
Magically, Yarrow is said to enhance psychic and perceptive abilities. Yarrow flowers can be used in charms, sachets, and dream pillows; it is said that a girl who places yarrow flowers under her pillow when she goes to bed will dream of her true love. Carrying yarrow is said to ward off fear and anxiety. For fear carry fresh yarrow flowers in either hand, and for anxiety place fresh or dried flowers into a bag of silk or velvet. This is supposed to be particularly good for stress related to job interviews or public speeches.
Yarrow is known for its protective properties. It is said to reverse negativity and protect a person from curses and hexes if it is carried in a pocket or purse. Carrying Yarrow will also draw the attention of those you wish to see or contact, it will attract friends and distant relations as well as love. To protect your home from evil, throw Yarrow across your threshold. To protect an infant from harmful forces, tie bundled Yarrow flowers to its cradle. A large patch of Yarrow in a yard or field is an indicator of a grounded energy spot and sitting there will help you to center and relax.
Yarrow hung as a wedding decoration and/or on the bridal bed assures that the couple's love will last for at least seven years. The dried stalks of Yarrow were used for casting I Ching divination before coins were used because of its psychic enhancement properties. When dried yarrow is burned, it is said that if the smokes rises it is a good omen. If the smoke goes down, it is a sign of potential negatives to come.