Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) – Essential Oil

Yarrow is an herbaceous flowering perennial in the family Asteraceae and has been known by several names including Devil’s Nettle, Old Man’s Pepper, Woundwort, Milfoil, Angel Flower, Thousand-Leaf, and Thousand-Seal. The species name millefolium is derived from the common name Milfoil, which comes from the French mile “feuille”, meaning “1000 leaves” – referring to its feathery leaves, which are divided into thousands of tiny leaflets (Balick, 2014). The genus name Achillea may have been derived from the Achilles of Greek mythology, who was said to have his wounds healed by Yarrow. 

Achillea millefolium is native to Europe and has been naturalized to North America. Yarrow Essential Oil is dark blue in color like German Chamomile Essential Oil and Blue Tansy Essential Oil because of an aromatic chemical called chamazulene. Chamazulene tends to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

Yarrow Essential Oil may allow us to feel protected and safe, shed light in dark places to allow for healing and returns us to our previous states prior to trauma. Yarrow has been used traditionally to help relief from headaches, pain, inflammation and muscle spasms. To relive congestions in the sinuses and lungs, prevent the chances of getting a flu or cold and to help lower fevers.

Topically over the stomach Yarrow is used for indigestion, bowel syndrome and gas. As well, it has been a helpful when applied on wounds, varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Yarrow has been used to calm the mind during times of worry It provides relief from stress and speeds up the healing process of wounds.

Blends well with: Cedarwood, Chamomile, Clary Sage, Cypress, Geranium, Helichrysum, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Marjoram, Melissa, Orange, Pine, Rosemary, Tea Tree, and Vetiver.

 How to use:

• For pain and inflammation combine Yarrow with Lavender, Blue Chamomile, Sweet Birch or Rosemary in Arnica and Comfrey infused oils.
• Massage the stomach with Yarrow, Fennel and Spearmint with the mixture of sesame oil and almond to help with digestive problems.
• Add Yarrow, Cypress and Frankincense into a carrier oil or cream and apply to hemorrhoids or varicose veins.
• For nasal and respiratory congestions combine Yarrow with Thyme, Eucalyptus, and peppermint in a carrier oil and apply to back, throat, sinuses and chest.
• For oily hair or dandruff combine Yarrow with Rosemary and Clary Sage and add to Shampoo or massage into scalp diluted in Argan oil.

Cautions & contraindications:

External use only. Do not use undiluted. Avoid eye area and if epileptic or pregnant. Information provided does not substitute for professional advice and care.