Yarrow Essential Oil

Latin name Achillea millefolium
Family species Asteraceae (Compositae)

Yarrow is also known by the names Milfoil, Common Yarrow, Nosebleed*, and Thousand Leaf (looking at a Yarrow plant, it’s easy to understand why). The chamazulene in the essential oil lends to the blue tint.

“This [Yarrow essential oil] has a fresh, green-fruity scent with a medicinal edge, used in perfumery and by aromatherapists to treat skin problems, rheumatism, and flu stress.” -Crabtree & Evelyn Fragrant Herbal: Enhancing Your Life with Aromatic Herbs and Essential Oils by Lesley Bremness

*Interesting side note: The “Nosebleed” name reportedly came about due to claims of the leaves of the Yarrow plant being used to control bleeding.

Oil Selection Guide

Color – Dark blue to greenish olive
Viscosity – Watery
Scent – Herby, sweet, fresh, slightly camphoraceous
Perfume Aroma – Middle note

Oil Source Information

Plant Type – Herb
Parts Used – Leaves / Flowering tops
Countries of Origin – Africa, North America, Germany, Hungary, France
Extraction Method – Steam distillation

Known Chemical Constituents

azulene/chamazulene, pinenes, caryophyllene, borneol, terpineol, cineol, bornyl acetate, camphor, sabinene, thujone, linalool

Uses of Yarrow Oil

Used in aromatherapy, Yarrow is also found in pharmaceutical products, perfumes, aftershaves, and as a flavoring ingredient in vermouths and bitters.

Yarrow blends well with

Special Precautions*

It is cautioned that Yarrow essential oil should not be used if pregnant.
Yarrow oil can cause irritation to sensitive skin.
Yarrow oil may be phototoxic.
* See Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See References and Resources page.