Phyllantusamarus
Family- Euphorbiaceae
Common names: Stone breaker, soldier’s woundwort, bloodwort, poor man’s quinine, ite-kwo-nwanazu (Igbo), eyinbisowo (Yoruba).
Yarrow is a common annual weed that does not grow more than 30-60 cm high. The leaves are small, simple, numerous and oblong. Sometimes, there are about 15-30 leaves arranged alternately in two rows along a 6 cm to 12 cm angular branch. When the plant is picked, the leaves fold-in, completely closing them as though taking a praying position.
The herb is found in many parts of the world and is reported as a weed in maize, sugarcane and rice plantations. It grows widely and can be found also in fallow lands, roadsides, and river banks, near lakes, valleys, abandoned fields, gardens and uncompleted buildings.
Parts used: whole plant
This amazing, feathery-leaved plant was traditionally used to stop bleeding. Legend has it that during the Trojan War, Achilles stopped the bleeding of his fellow soldiers’ wounds by applying the yarrow’s leaf. Scientists have discovered that the soldier’s myth may have been right. Yarrow contains substances that may help stop bleeding and have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties potentially helpful in wound treatment.
The crushed plants or an ointment of the leaves is said to cure wounds, restrain violent bleeding and relieve pain. For wound treatment, press fresh leaves into cuts and scrapes. To promote healing apply the compress made from the leaves externally to clean wounds and inflammations. In addition to the wound-healing effects of yarrow, here are some other benefits of this herbal helper.
Hormonal imbalance: research shows that the herb is good for balancing hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, potentially alleviating the severity of symptoms such as bloating, mood swings and heavy bleeding. Its bitter components support liver function, which could be part of how it helps balance hormones. Based on its signatures, yarrow helps in an ovulation and infertility in women.
It is said that various names, shapes, colors, taste, smell, texture and even the habitats of certain plants are indications of the ailments they will heal. This incidence is known as “signature of plants.” The flowers which are minute, solitary are borne on the leaf axils and appear in a row hanging below the length of the leafy stalk. So in my area we call the herb “ite-kwo-nwanazu” meaning “pot with its children at the back.”
Many therefore believe those flowers hanging on the leaf axils represent numerous eggs indicating fertility. Thus to them yarrow favors child’s birth. Promotion of child birth including the ovulation and regulation of menstruation are subsumed that the plant will work in these areas.
For these, leaves and soft stems are washed and macerated and extract taken, one teacup, 2 times daily.
Endometriosis- as noted above, yarrow helps balance hormones, which makes it especially useful for women with endometriosis, who may have excess estrogen. Infuse 1 TBSP. in freshly boiled water for 30 minutes, strain and drink one to three cups a day.
Leg swelling – if fluid retention makes your leg swell and ugly, this remedy will refresh them and help prevent fluid buildup. First, make a strong infusion of the herb by steeping 2 tablespoons in about 50CL of boiled water; for faster result, steep with peppermint or any other member of Lamiaceae. Strain out the herb and set aside in the fridge.
Meanwhile, prepare different lengths of gauze, cheese cloth or muslin. When the infusion is chilled, soak the cloths in it and wrap them around your lower legs or affected parts. Sit or lie down, elevate your legs, and chill out for 20-30 minutes. Do this daily for 7days, and say goodbye to some ugly feet! Be sure to rule out any underlying condition.
Body odor- sluggish or poor elimination sometimes causes body odor. You can use yarrow to help clean your body on the inside. Infuse a heaping tablespoon of the herb in about 100CL of freshly boiled water for 15-30 minutes. Strain and sip throughout the day.
Liver problems-Yarrow is also very useful for many liver maladies. It fortifies and re-invigorates the liver; stimulates and increases the production of bile in the body. It is indeed a powerful immune system stimulator. Animal studies have shown that yarrow protects the liver from toxic chemical damage. And scientifically conducted research in India showed yarrow helps treat hepatitis. A boiled tea of the fresh or dried leaves taken 2 to 3 times daily for two months will help bring relief to a sick liver.
Kidney problems: Yarrow is called “stone breaker” and so it is believed to have a powerful effect on kidney and gallstones. Many researchers have attested to its efficacy for kidney stones. A German medical physician, Dr Wolfram believes that this plant provides a permanent cure for gallstones and kidney stones. In Brazil, tea made from the whole plant is used in the treatment of painful kidneys. In Indonesia, the primary use of yarrow is in the treatment of kidney stones.
Poor circulation: certain terpenes found in yarrow are thought to improve circulation in the brain and other parts of the body. To increase circulation, combine equal parts of yarrow and peppermint leaves. Use one heaping teaspoon per cup of boiling water, cover and steep for 10-15 minutes, then strain. Drink a cup twice daily.
Yarrow tastes tangy and bitter with some astringency. To improve flavor, add honey or lemon or mix it with an herbal beverage blend. Enjoy!