How to Grow Yarrow: A Medicinal Herb with Countless Benefits

Imagine a plant so versatile that it has been celebrated for centuries across the globe for its healing properties, vibrant blooms, and resilience in the garden. Yarrow is more than just a pretty flower in the plant world. The benefits of yarrow range from medicinal herb to vital flower for pollinators. Learn more about the many reasons to grow yarrow in your garden.

Once seedlings grown indoors are several inches tall and have at least two sets of true leaves, it's time to get them ready for transplanting.

To successfully transplant yarrow seedlings, first harden them off. This process will ensure that they transition into their outdoor space without transplant shock.

Transplant to a spot with full sun and well-drained soil. Space yarrow plants 18 to 24 inches apart. This may seem like a lot of space, but they are a perennial that grows quickly.  

Once yarrow plants are growing, they require very little care. But these tips will ensure your yarrow is a reliable source of blooms.

• Yarrow is a perennial that blooms from early summer through fall. It doesn't need additional fertilizer, but yearly applications of compost can keep the soil fertile. 
• Although yarrow is drought-resistant, regular watering will keep it blooming. 
• Regularly cutting flowers will keep the yarrow plants blooming.
• Any time your yarrow plants outgrow their space, you can prune them back.

There are many studies on the medicinal benefits of yarrow, but most of them haven’t made it to human trials yet. Traditionally, yarrow has been used for the following: 

• Topical application may help reduce bleeding in minor wounds and nosebleeds. 
• Yarrow tea could be used as a sedative or relaxant to reduce anxiety and stress. 
• Yarrow powder or infusions may help relieve digestive issues. 
• Respiratory support for relief of symptoms of common colds and flu.

Leaves and flowers can be steeped in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to make yarrow tea. Use about 1-2 teaspoons of yarrow in each cup of water. In addition to tea, yarrow can be ground into a fine powder or made into herbal remedies. Yarrow powder can be added to smoothies, juices, or foods for easy consumption. Ointments, tinctures, and extracts can be used topically on injuries.

Yarrow tea is made from the leaves, stems, and flowers of the yarrow plant. Sometimes people use the root as well, which is best after a few years of growth. Yarrow tea is rich in antioxidants and nutrients, with Vitamins A and C, potassium, zinc, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and niacin. It has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Additionally, yarrow leaves and flowers make a nutritious and delicious addition to salads.

While most people can use yarrow safely, there are a few people who should avoid its use. Consult your healthcare provider for personal advice about the safety of yarrow for your situation. Do not use yarrow if you have an allergy to plants in the ragweed family, as you may also be allergic to yarrow. It also has possible interactions with lithium, some blood thinning and high blood pressure medications, medicines to reduce stomach acid, and drugs that cause sleepiness or have a sedative effect. Lastly, pregnant and breastfeeding women should also use caution.