Astringent and bitter, this herb opens channels and promotes the flow of vata while pacifying pitta and reducing kapha.
Achillea millefolium, Asteraceae. Yarrow’s scientific name comes from the the ancient Greek hero Achilles. The infant Achilles was granted (near) invulnerability when the goddess Thetis dipped him yarrow-suffused waters, and in turn, the hero used the flower to staunch the bleeding of his soldiers. Yarrow sticks are also sacred for being used to read the I’ Ching. Yarrow's stunning effects on bleeding wounds have made this plant revered as a powerful healer.
Styptic (stops bleeding)
Wound healer, regenerates skin tissue and supports circulation
Regulates heavy menses
Antiseptic and anti-inflammatory