Yarrow: The Old-Time Herb That Still Earns Its Place

Yarrow doesn’t need much tending, and it doesn’t ask for attention—but it’s been kept around for generations anyway. That usually tells you something. It grows where it wants, handles poor soil without complaint, and has a long history of being used in practical, everyday ways. Not trendy. Just useful.

I planted one yarrow plant a couple years ago, and it’s been doing its own thing ever since. I water it if we go a stretch without rain, cut what I need, and it just keeps spreading year after year—even bouncing back this spring after a late frost I thought had taken it out.

What It Is

Yarrow is a hardy perennial with feathery leaves and clusters of small white (or sometimes yellow and pink) flowers.

You’ll find it growing wild in fields and along roadsides, but it’s just as at home in a garden bed.

How It Grows

Yarrow is about as independent as a plant gets.

• Full sun

• Well-drained soil

• Very little watering

Too much attention actually does more harm than good. I’ve always appreciated plants that can take care of themselves.

It spreads easily once established, so give it space or be ready to thin it out.

The bonus? Pollinators love it.

How I Use It Around the Home

Yarrow isn’t a kitchen herb in the usual sense. This is more of a “keep it on hand” plant.

• Dried for salves and infused oils

• Added to simple herbal blends

• Kept in a home apothecary

• Used fresh in a pinch when needed

It’s one of those herbs you don’t use every day—but when you need it, you’re glad you have it.

Traditional Uses

Yarrow has a long history in traditional herbal use, especially for skin support and minor everyday injuries.

For generations, it’s been used topically for things like:

• Cuts and scrapes

• Skin irritation

• General first-aid type needs

Fresh yarrow has also traditionally been used as a simple poultice, pressed onto small cuts to help slow bleeding. It’s one of those old-time remedies that shows up again and again in folk use.

A Simple Recipe: Yarrow Salve

This is a good, basic recipe to keep around. Nothing complicated.

Ingredients

• 4 oz yarrow infused oil (make your own with this recipe)

• 1-2 oz beeswax

*I like to use 2 oz beeswax per 4 oz of oil so that it doesn't melt as easy in the summer heat when I am carrying it with me in my herbal first aid kit.

Instructions

1. Warm the infused oil and stir in beeswax until melted

2. Pour into small jars or tins

3. Let cool

How I Use It

• Kept on hand for everyday skin needs

• Used on dry or irritated areas

• Tucked into a bag or cabinet for quick use

Simple, practical, and worth making once a year.

How This Actually Gets Used Week to Week

Truth is, it doesn’t get used every week—and that’s fine.

• Dried and stored for when it’s needed

• Pulled out for small, everyday skin issues

• Restocked once or twice a year

It’s more like a well-stocked first-aid kit than a pantry staple.

‘Til next time, keep livin’ that farm fresh life!
~ Megan

👉 Curious how our homestead journey began? Read our story here.

A Quick Note on Herbs

Yarrow is a useful plant, but it’s not something to use carelessly.

• Some people can have skin sensitivity

• It’s not recommended during pregnancy

• Always test a small area first

This is based on traditional use and personal experience—not medical advice. Use good judgment and do your own research when needed.