As far as 'maladies of the spirit', Yarrow has long had a reputation for being an herb of courage. In fact, history has reference to the Romans having used yarrow and nettles to combat fear and self-negation. Some say it was a different Achilles altogether. The Scottish Highlanders still make an ointment of Yarrow for wounds. For a time, Yarrow was actually quite popularly used as a snuff, hence the common name of Old Man s Pepper.
Yarrow tea is a good remedy for severe colds, especially when taken just at the start of a fever.
In fact, Yarrow is one of the best known herbs for dry fevers, especially those accompanying eruptive diseases in children such as measles. Yarrow is good for cleansing and toning of the skin, and makes a good addition to natural shampoos for fair hair. Yarrow grows as a wild weed here, and is common in grass pastures and meadows. It s a creeper that multiplies prolifically by seed. It is an exceptionally hardy plant, and grows about 5 tall with finely divided leaves which have a feathery appearance.