Yarrow!
Yarrow is a plant native to our area that has been used medicinally for thousands of years. It is a very versatile herb and can be used in hundreds of ways – from flavoring beer to healing wounds.
First of all , take care when harvesting large amounts of yarrow if using a knife or scissors. The plant has a property that numbs pain, and if you are handling it without gloves you may numb your fingers enough to accidentally cut yourself!
Second, yarrow should be avoided during pregnancy. Also, Rarely, some people can be sensitive to it,becoming dizzy with use. Do not overuse yarrow, persistent internal use can cause inflammation of the liver.
Yarrow as a cold and flu remedy: Immediately upon onset of cold or flu symptoms, drink 1-2 liters of strongly steeped yarrow tea. This should halt the progression of the virus entirely, but only if you catch the virus right away. If you wait until the cold or flu has taken a firm hold, it will help to reduce your symptoms, but probably won’t get rid of the sickness entirely. You may want to drink some yarrow tea as a preventative if others around you are sick, but do not take it for too many days, as it is a very strong herb and can be hard on your liver.
Yarrow as a mosquito repellant: Yarrow leaves added to the fire are reported to repel mosquitoes. Some native groups made smudges of yarrow by lighting them on hot coals.
Yarrow as a facial treatment: Steaming your face with yarrow can help clear problem skin. Place yarrow in a bowl of very hot water, lean your head over the bowl and place a towel over your head to make a tent, trapping the steam in. Stay this way for 10 minutes, then rinse face.
