Cultivated forms with flowers in many colors are available from seed companies and nurseries and are easy to grow. Traditionally, herbalists gathered only the flowers for medicinal purposes, but the upper stems and leaves actually retain their potency longest and should be harvested as well. However, while yarrow has a number of uses, I don't know that pain relief is one of them. Mostly, I've heard of using fresh leaves in a poultice as first aid for cuts and abrasions and yarrow flowers to treat allergic eczema. My herbal book says that yarrow tea can be used as a stomach tonic and may also have a mild laxative effect.
Herbalists also recommend it to decrease menstruation and relieve mentrual cramps.
Overuse can cause photosensitivity , however, and any preparation containing yarrow should be avoided during pregnancy. But I certainly recommend yarrow as a great addition to your garden. Fresh or dried, the flowers look great in summer flower arrangements. Discuss the pros and cons on the Boards. Inc. All rights reserved.