Yarrow

new leaf growth on Common Yarrow

Yarrow as an Antiseptic

A Witch Hazel Infusion

Yarrow or Common Yarrow has the botanical name Achillea millefolium. While it does not have the apprearnce of a Daisy, Yarrow is classified in the Daisy family of Asteraceae.

Yarrow has been known for centuries as a natural wound treatment across many cultures and continents. What a legacy herb!

Anti-inflammatory and Antiseptic

Yarrow is packed with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. The anti-inflammatory properties reduce the redness and irritation. The antiseptic properties prevent infection. Yarrow can also reduce pain and decrease blood flow.

Witch Hazel infused with Yarrow

At Dockery Lane Gardens, we’re outside a lot! As such, we get nipped by various bugs looking for a snack or tagged by plants. All of a sudden, we have red, itchy, lumpy skin! Our remedy – witch hazel infused yarrow.

We add yarrow leaves from our garden to a bottle of witch hazel astringent. The leaves are washed then gently with running water, patted dry, then lightly crushed before being stuffed into the witch hazel bottle. Shake well before each use. And, a pro-tip – cover the outside of the bottle with a wrapper to keep out the sunlight. Light exposure will decrease the potency of the yarrow. We wrap duct tape around the bottle.

Witch hazel is natural astringent sold at most pharmacies in the first aid section near the alcohol and peroxide bottles. By itself, witch hazel will bring relief to the skin allergens. However, when yarrow is added, the infusion is more potent and healing.