Yarrow has a long history of use as a topical medication for wounds such as cuts and abrasions. The genus ‘Achillea’ being so named for the Greek character, Achilles, the hero of the Trojan war and the greatest warrior of Homer’s iliad, who reportedly carried Yarrow with his army to treat battle wounds. A flowering plant common to the entirety of the lower 48 states, Yarrow can be found in both grasslands and open forests. The herb is purported to have diaphoretic (the power to cause increased perspiration), astringent (aids in clotting when applied externally), and stimulant like properties. The primarly alkaloid in Yarrow, ‘achilleine’ has been shown to be haemostatic, reducing clotting time without toxic side-effects. It has also been reported to lower blood pressure and was isolated and used as a quinine substitute for the prevention of Malaria at the turn of the century.
Yarrow poisoning is rare, the tannins in the plant give it a bitter taste that tends to dissuade animals from over consumption. Additionally a pet would need to consume a nearly impossible amount of the plant to face potentially lethal consequences. In most cases symptoms will be limited to gastrointestinal upset (vomiting and diarrhea). Treatment is largely symptomatic ensuring that the animal remains properly hydrated and is prevented from ingesting more of the plant. Yarrow may cause elevated or more severe symptoms in pets that are allergy prone and non tolerant of ragweed and related plants in the Asteraceae or Compositae family such as chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many others. In pregnant animals yarrow may cause miscarriage and it is not recommended that pets be allowed to nurse from an animal that may have recently ingested Yarrow. There is also a concern that the anticoagulant properties of Yarrow may increase bleeding during and after surgery, so it is recommended that at least 2 weeks be given prior to surgery from the last known consumption of the plant. Prevent further ingestion and consult a veterinarian.
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