The plant totem, yarrow, teaches us about cleansing and strengthening when it acts as one of our Native American Totems. It is the birth totem associated with the Corn Planting Moon which falls between May 21 through June 20. Although it may work with you at any time to discover your healing powers and your inner strength.

Yarrow is one of those unique plants where the entire plant can be used medicinally. Yarrow is terrific as a tonic. It has been used for digestive tract disturbances and as a blood cleanser. This herb can help to conquer the common cold and brings relief to flu sufferers. It is a good diuretic and opens pores to eliminate toxins through the skin. Yarrow is excellent for stopping bleeding and is a primary herb used to alleviate menstrual cramps. If used externally, yarrow acts as a local anesthetic and disinfectant. It also helps relieve mosquito bite itch and also toothaches. Yarrow can also aid the lungs, glands, and bronchial tubes.
I love to have this plant growing in my yard in a couple of different places, whether it is working with me as a totem or not. Yarrow is a perennial that stands upright and is drought tolerant. The plant is native to Europe but has naturalized itself throughout North America. The finely dissected leaves resemble those of a fern with a daintiness about them. The small mustard-yellow flowers are tightly compact forming a disc-shaped head usually affixed to a single stem. Yarrow prefers light and rich soils in full sun. Yarrow seeds can be planted in your garden for both beauty and as a crop for medicinal use.

“Sudy in Gold” Goldfinch Print by ArtbyJaneWalker at Zazzle

You can also purchase an herbal supplement in many health food stores. It is important to know that one should not take or use Yarrow if one is pregnant. It is most wise to consult your physician before using this plant as a supplement or even externally.

Another name for yarrow is Bloodwort. Yarrow or Bloodwort has been used for centuries by many cultures including the indigenous peoples of North America after it started to appear from the Europeans arrival. I find it interesting that eventually it was adopted into the Native American Totems for the Corn Planting Moon.

~Mitakuye Oyasin~ We are all related.