Achillea millifolium Yarrow Related species:
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Favoured for use in divination for
spells and witchcraft, yarrow was also known as "devil's rattle" and "devil's
plaything". In Sussex, yarrow was not allowed to grow on the graves of
young men. In the western counties, it had to be harvested at full moon
and, in Herefordshire, it had to be picked from a churchyard unfamiliar
to the harvester. It was believed that yarrow strewn on the heath would
keep witches away and, if hung up on the eve of St. John, it would keep
sickness in the house at bay for the year ahead. In the Hebrides, a yarrow
leaf was held up against the eye to gain "second sight". The Swedes placed
it in beer to increase its intoxicating qualities and to keep the beer
from souring.
Yarrow was considered an essential part of a British army surgeon's kit until the 19th century, as it is invaluable in arresting bleeding. Yarrow tea mixed with elderberry blossoms and peppermint, taken at the beginning of a cold, will break up the cold in 24 hours. Yarrow is a perennial that prefers dry, moderately-rich soil in a warm position. Rye grass and yarrow grown together make an excellent pasture for cows. Yarrow is a valuable addition to a compost heap. |