Yarrow is a perennial herb with fernlike foliage. The foliage is covered with silky or wooly hairs; this herb produces white flowers in clusters. Yarrow is native to Europe but was brought to North America where it flourishes. Yarrow pollen fossils have been found in Neanderthal burial caves, suggesting that this herb has a VERY long history. Dried yarrow stalks are the traditional choice for casting the I-Ching, the Chinese divination practice. During the Trojan War, Achilles is thought to have packed yarrow into wounds to stop bleeding. Some botanists think that yarrow’s scientific name — achillea millefolium — comes … Continue reading →