Yarrow, the Thousand Ailment Healer

loves to work with us when dyeing fiber, stitching threads, and healing ourselves

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has been healing people for thousands of years. The plant’s genus name honors Achilles, who learned from the centaur Chiron to use yarrow on the wounds. Our elders knew many healing powers of Yarrow (that is a story for a much longer post and something we will explore in classes), and for them it was common knowledge that it can help stop bleeding, assist in easing inflammation, help soothe us when recovering from fever states, and more. In Scottish tradition, yarrow (or lus na fola) was tucked into clothing as a protection charm against ill energies. Herbalist elders hold Yarrow in great esteem, and in my own herbal practice and garden, Yarrow holds a very important place.

When paired with spinning or sewing, yarrow’s magic deepens: we can dye our yarn with it, weave its stalks into our stitches, and set intentions for healing and protection, both. Natural dyeing may sound intimidating, but yarrow makes it easy. When simmered, its flowers yield a soft yellow dye resonating with the gentle sunlight on a winter morning, which can be used to color a piece of cotton or wool, then turn it into a charm. Are you ready to give it a try?

Simple Craft Spell: Yarrow‑Dyed Healing Pouch Charm

You’ll need:

• A handful of dried yarrow blossoms or leaves.

• A small white cotton square (roughly 6×6 inches) or a mini skein of undyed wool yarn.

• A pot and water.

• Needle and thread (or yarn) for sewing.

• Dried herbs (chamomile, rose petals, lemon balm, lavender, rosemary, or other herbs that resonate with you and your intention) for filling.

Steps:

1. Place the yarrow in a pot with enough water to cover your cloth/yarn.

2. Simmer gently for about 30 minutes. The water will turn a warm, golden color.

3. Add the cloth or yarn and simmer for another 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Rinse in cool water and let it dry. The color will be subtle and will be just right for a subtle charm you can easily carry or keep where it is needed and return to Mother Earth with gratitude.

5. Making your Pouch Charm

   1. If using cloth: trim to twice the size you want for your charm, fold it in half, right sides together, and sew two sides to form a tiny pouch. Turn it right‑side out, fill with herbs, and stitch the top closed.

6. If using yarn: knit or crochet a tiny bag, or simply braid a cord and tie three knots on it.

   
   

   “By yarrow’s grace, I mend and heal.”

   
   

7. Carry your yarrow charm in your pocket or place it where it feels right. Whenever you need a reminder of your own healing power, hold it and allow it to connect you with your healing intentions and inner strengths.

   
   

At our upcoming in‑person workshop, we’ll connect with the magic of Yarrow and our hands will work to create a bundle of healing and protection while we journey through the stories of Goddess Cailleach and her winter wisdom.

If you live near Pathways in St Louis, Missouri, find them on Facebook to discover when and where our Cailleach & Magic of Yarrow class is happening.

See you soon, Where Fairy Tales Meet the Fiber Threads!