Yarrow

Yarrow is an aromatic meadow plant with finely divided, feathery leaves and clusters of small white or pinkish flower heads. It has an extensive history in herbalism, where its flowering tops and leaves have been gathered for teas, washes, compresses and other preparations.

Herbal actions and traditional uses

In herbal literature, yarrow is described as astringent, meaning associated with a tightening effect on tissues, and vulnerary, a traditional term for plants used in wound-care preparations.

European herbal traditions include yarrow in washes and compresses historically applied to minor cuts and irritated skin. Its place in these preparations reflects a long history of working with the flowering herb, rather than a single contemporary skincare application.[1]

Constituents of interest

Yarrow contains tannins, associated with its astringent character; flavonoids such as apigenin and luteolin derivatives; phenolic acids; and aromatic terpenes and sesquiterpene lactones.

Research on Achillea extracts has explored antioxidant activity and interactions with biological processes involved in inflammation. Its flavonoids and aromatic constituents are of particular interest in studies of botanical materials for cosmetic formulation.[2]

The plant and its habitat

Yarrow grows in meadows, sunny clearings and disturbed soils. Its tightly clustered flower heads attract visiting insects, including pollinators and other beneficial species. The widespread Achillea millefolium group shows substantial variation among populations.

At Deschampsia

We gather yarrow flowers for botanical infusions used in Glow Serum and Harmony Serum. The flowers are also part of the botanical infusion in Rescue Balm.

Yarrow contributes to our broader approach to working with locally gathered flowers in oil-based facial and body preparations.