Yarrow is an ancient herb steeped in mythology. A sacred herb in many cultures, Yarrow stalks are used for I Ching instead of coin.

Legend has it that yarrow (Achillea millefolium) was named after Achilles, Greek mythical figure who used it to stop bleeding wounds of his soldiers. Popular in European folk medicine, yarrow has traditionally been used to treat wounds, menstrual ailments, and bleeding hemorrhoids. Its traditional uses also include treatment of fevers and colds, and relief of stomach and intestinal upset. Yarrow has been valued since ancient times for its ability to stop bleeding, hence its folk name "nosebleed." Today, yarrow is valued for its ability to fight off colds and flu. It is also an ingredient in many herbal cosmetics. Dried and cut flowers are used in arrangements.

This plant is so hardy that you can chop it and mow it down and it will come back up while you are doing chopping. The wild yarrow is white, other yarrows were bred for color and smell. Found in Europe and Americas, forty species belong in yarrow genus.

Harvest in flower and gather whole flowering heads. You will not hurt plants you harvest, they will grow right back. You can also harvest whole above ground parts including leaf, stems and flowers. This adds a bitter quality to finished product. No special harvesting equipment needed.

Use flowers, leaves and stems.

A piece of plant held against a wound will staunch bleeding.

An infusion can help to break a fever.

A tea made from yarrow with peppermint and elderflower can be used to fight colds and flu.

Yarrow can be of benefit in mild cystitis.

Promotes digestion.

Improves circulation by acting as a vasodilator.

Lowers blood pressure.

Do not use yarrow during pregnancy, for undiagnosed bleeding, or for more than two weeks. Infusion causes contractions; should NOT be given to PREGNANT women. Prolonged use may cause rash and sun-sensitivity in skin.

Start of article.

Walking for fitness, A Beginning Program

Warm temperatures, sunshine, summery breezes just incite you to start something active outside. Maybe that walking program you were thinking about all winter. Well here is a beginning-walking program you can follow to help you along. First we will start with some pointers.

Don’t use a 6-lane highway as you’re walking path. Try to find a safe area to walk if you can.

Use a pair of comfortable shoes preferably with a cushioned sole. Better yet, if you are serious about walking, buy yourself a topnotch pair of walking shoes.

Wear clothing you feel comfortable walking in. Preferably bright upper body clothing if you walk along more heavily traveled roads.

Start gradually with your walking to avoid getting super stiff and sore. Give your muscles a change to get use to it.

Use some light stretching after you are done walking to help bring back some elasticity back into your muscles.

If it is hot outside make sure to drink enough water to keep hydrated.

Walk with good posture by keeping your head up and shoulders back and not slouched ahead.