153 ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM 



and middle States of America, has more active properties than 

 that found in Europe. 



Yarrow has been analysed by Sprengel, Ch. C. Sears, and 

 Zanon, and its principal constituents, have been found to be a 

 volatile oil, a bitter principle called achilleine, an acid termed achil- 

 leic acid, and tannin. Its properties are more especially due to 

 the volatile oil, achilleine, and tannic acid. The oil may be 

 readily obtained by distilling the flowering herb with water; it 

 has a beautiful blue colour, and the odour of the plant. 



Medical Properties and Uses. The properties of yarrow are those 

 of a mild aromatic tonic and astringent. In former times it had a 

 high reputation as a vulnerary, hence its common English name of 

 Nose-bleed, and its French name Herbe aux Charpentiers. In some 

 parts of Sweden, according to Linneus, it was employed instead of 

 hops in the preparation of beer, which it was thought to render 

 more intoxicating. At present it is but very rarely used in 

 European practice, but its introduction of late years into the 

 Pharmacopoeia of the United States will probably lead to its 

 properties being again tested; and from recent testimony it 

 would appear to be more especially valuable as an emmenagogue ; 

 as a local application and internal remedy in hsemorrhoidal affec- 

 tions ; and in certain atonic conditions of the bladder which are 

 attended with discharges. It is said to be "" especially useful in 

 correcting the involuntary discharge of urine in children." It 

 has also been employed in intermittent fevers ; and as an anti- 

 spasmodic in flatulence, colic, and nervous affections. The bitter 

 principle (achilleine) has also been recommended as an anti- 

 periodic. The best form for administering yarrow is as an infusion, 

 which may be prepared by macerating an ounce of the leaves and 

 flowering tops in a pint of water ; this may be given in doses of a 

 wineglassful or more. The volatile oil may also be employed in 

 doses of from ten to thirty drops. 



Gerarde's Herbal], by Johnson (1636), p. 1073 ; Miller's Garcl. 

 Diet., vol. i, pt. 1; Griffith's Med. Bot., p. 403; Linneus, 

 Flor. Suec., p. 299; U. S. Disp., by W. & B., p. 17; Watts' 

 Diet. Chem., vol. i, p. 36; Porcher's Med. Bot. of South 



