Yarrow

We initially added Yarrow to our garden when we learned about its wound healing properties.  It was commonly used by soldiers in combat from the time of ancient Greeks through the early 20th century.  We first put this plant to the test when one of our Golden Laced Polish Hens got hit by a car.  Her wing was badly bleeding.  We were worried that the other chickens would pick on her once they saw all the blood.  After applying a yarrow poultice to her wing, we saw the benefits of this plant first hand.  The blood was clotted and the green paste from the poultice masked the red color which allowed her to be among the other chickens without getting picked on.  I'm happy to report that her wing healed and she is still alive on our farm today!  Working on a farm and having three kiddos requires us to have an important plant specific for cuts and scrapes.   

Even though we mainly use this plant externally, there are so many beneficial effects internally as well.  Yarrow is a fever breaker, aromatic bitter, blood mover, and useful for lower urinary tract infections.  This herb can have opposite effects as needed.  For example, yarrow can stimulate menstruation, slow blood loss from wounds, and stimulates contractions, but manages to relax the uterus to ease painful cramping, and to prevent excessive bleeding--all at the same time!