Yarrow is a plant rich in lore, with connections to Greek mythology, Celtic traditions, and various divination practices. It's most notably associated with healing, particularly stemming from its use by Achilles to treat battle wounds. It also has a history in divination, especially with the I Ching and courtship rituals.
The plant's scientific name, Achillea millefolium, directly references the Greek hero Achilles, who was said to have used yarrow to heal his soldiers' wounds during the Trojan War.
Greek mythology also connects yarrow to the legend of Achilles being dipped in the River Styx for immortality, with a spot missed due to yarrow being used to hold him. The centaur Chiron, known for his knowledge of medicinal plants, is also linked to yarrow, having passed his knowledge onto Achilles.
Yarrow stalks are used in the practice of the I Ching, a Chinese philosophical text, for divination purposes. Yarrow's reputation as a wound herb is well-established, with historical uses including staunching bleeding and promoting healing. Historically, yarrow has been used for various ailments, including toothaches, earaches, and colds. Yarrow remains a popular herb in herbalism and continues to be used for its medicinal properties.
Yarrow's symbolism of healing, resilience, and youthful love continues to resonate today. European folklore links yarrow to finding a true love, with various rituals involving plucking the plant and interpreting its condition.
In Celtic traditions, yarrow was considered sacred and used in rituals to ward off evil spirits and for divination. It's also associated with protection from evil spirits and is sometimes called "devil's nettle" due to its ability to cause a nosebleed if taken internally.
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Chamomile is steeped in lore and tradition, with historical uses ranging from medicinal to sacred. Ancient Egyptians revered it as a gift from the gods, while medieval monks cultivated it for its healing properties. Its apple-like scent has earned it names like "ground apple" and "little apple" in various cultures.
Chamomile was sacred to the sun god Ra and was depicted in hieroglyphics. It was believed to have healing properties, capable of curing fevers and cooling the body. Nobility used it in beauty regimens, and its oil was used to anoint the dead.
Chamomile continues to be valued for its calming and soothing properties, often consumed as tea to promote relaxation and sleep. The name "chamomile" itself, derived from the Greek "chamomaela," means "earth-apple," referencing its apple-like scent. Romans used chamomile for incense and as a medicinal herb to promote overall health.
Chamomile was a staple in monastic gardens, used to treat asthma, nausea, skin diseases, and insomnia. It was believed to have protective properties and even thought to aid ailing plants when planted nearby. Dry chamomile flowers, pulverize them with a mortar and pestle, and use them in an incense blend to bring about relaxation and meditation. Chamomile is especially useful if you're trying to get yourself calmed and centered—blend it with lavender if you'd like to ensure a night of restful sleep with calming dreams.
