Character
The Story of Yarrow
Yarrow, Achillea millefolium, ranks among humanity's oldest botanical allies. Its flower heads yield a potent essential oil prized in perfumery for its complex, herbaceous, and slightly camphoraceous character that bridges green and aromatic traditions.
Heritage
Yarrow carries one of perfumery's most evocative etymologies, named for Achilles, the legendary Greek warrior who allegedly used the plant to treat his soldiers' battlefield wounds. One of the oldest known botanicals, Achillea millefolium appears in medicinal traditions across Europe, Northern Asia, and North America. The United States Pharmacopoeia officially listed yarrow during the 19th century, recognizing its traditional use in promoting menstruation and treating wounds. Ancient peoples from the Greeks to indigenous North American tribes incorporated yarrow into their healing practices. Its resilience and adaptability made it a constant companion across vastly different cultures and geographies, earning it names like 'nosebleed' and 'soldier's woundwort' for its association with battlefield medicine.
At a Glance
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Feature this note
Herbaceous Notes
Olfactive group
Europe
Primary source region
Ingredient Details
Steam distillation
Flower heads
Did You Know
"Named after Achilles, who reportedly used yarrow to treat wounded soldiers during the Trojan War."
