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Yarrow Organic |
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Yarrow Organic
YARROW - ORGANIC
(Achillea millefolium)
History and Folklore
Yarrow received its Latin name from the Greek hero Achilles, son of the Sea-Goddess Thetis and the mortal king Peleus. Being well-versed in the magic arts, Thetis sought to make her baby invulnerable by dipping him into the river Styx. Thus, no arrow or sword could harm him, except on a small area around his ankle where his mother had held him. She also tried to make him invulnerable by fire, but Peleus disturbed her ritual. Thetis fled back to her father and Peleus gave Achilles to the centaur Chiron for his education. Chiron taught the young lad well, both in the use of weapons and in the use of herbs. He not only became one of the greatest warriors in the war of Troy, but he also staunched and healed many of his men's wounds with the aid of a special herb named Yarrow. In older books Yarrow is sometimes called 'Militaris' for the services it has provided to military men throughout the ages.
In Chinese philosophy, Yarrow is thought to denote perfect balance between yin and yang, the male and female energies of the universe. Thus it is considered most sacred as a divinatory tool for the famous I Ching. Yarrow is a small herb of the daisy family, which apparently pretends to belong to the Carrot family and some older writers actually seem to have been fooled by it. Yarrow has a very aromatic, bitter scent and in the past has been used for brewing ale. (Also see Yarrow Essential oil)
Medicinal Uses:
Yarrow is a balancing herb and may be useful in numerous conditions depending on which herbs it is combined with. It is excellent for various inflammatory conditions, such as hayfever, colds and flu or to treat infections of the urinary tract such as cystitis and vaginits. Its bitter principle acts as a tonic for the digestive system and soothes cramps and colic. Yarrow can help to reduce fever and promotes sweating. It is an excellent styptic and can be used to staunch both internal and external bleeding. It can check excessive menstrual flow, help regulate the cycle and is useful during menopause. Externally it can be used to dress cuts and wounds and to soothe inflammatory skin conditions, rashes, acne and eczema. It is also used in hair care preparations as it promotes hair growth and checks dandruff. Yarrow may be used for varicose veins and to revive tired legs and feet.
CAUTION
May cause allergic reaction in individuals who are sensitive to herbs of the daisy family.
Magical Uses:
Yarrow can be used for protection and courage. It is ideal for chakra balancing and to cleanse the third eye. It may also be used for love divination and to attune to the changing balance between yin and yang when working with the I Ching. It may also be used to seal the bond of friendship.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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