Medicinal Plants in My Backyard… That Might be in Yours Too!
Molly Taylor, NEC Intern
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a flowering plant in the asteraceae family. The genus name Achillea derives from Achilles the Greek hero, who reportedly used yarrow to heal his soldiers wounds during war, making yarrow a symbol of bravery and courage. The species name Millefolium, which means a thousand leaves, perfectly describes the plant’s delicate, fern-like green leaves.
In my backyard, the white variety of yarrow grows, though red, pink, and yellow cultivars also exist. Yarrow typically grows up to 3 feet in height, with the leaves ranging from 3-5 inches in length. The flowering heads are arranged in large dome-shaped clusters at the top of the stem, containing 20-25 flowers.
Native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere in Asia, Europe, and North America, yarrow is found in both wild and cultivated forms. The flower can grow at sea level and in mountainous areas, and is frequently found in grasslands and open forests. Yarrow grows in every habitat throughout California, except for the Colorado and Mojave Desert.
Yarrow plays a vital role in various ecosystems. Several cavity-nesting birds use yarrow to line their nests, moth larvae feed on this flower, and humans have long valued yarrow for its medicinal properties. As an antimicrobial vulnerable herb, it aids in wound healing and helps stop bleeding. A poultice made from ground yarrow leaves and flowers can be applied topically for these beneficial effects.
Hawthorn berry (Crataegus monogyna), commonly known as common Hawthorn or Single Seed Hawthorn is a deciduous tree or shrub in the Rose family (Rosaceae). Renowned for its medicinal benefits and rich herbal folklore, Hawthorn was used in Eastern European cultures as a charm against witchcraft and vampires. I have had no runs in with vampires or witches, all thanks to this hawthorn tree that grows in my front yard.
Native to Europe, Northwestern Africa and Western Asia, the hawthorn berry tree has been introduced to many other parts of the world. This adaptable species thrives in various soil types and climate conditions, commonly found in woodlands and open fields.
Hawthorn berry trees grow in a dense, rounded shape, and can reach a height of about 20 to 30 ft tall. These trees possess glossy green leaves with small white flowers that began to bloom in clusters during late spring and early summer. This fruit produces small red berries, called haws, that are about a centimeter in diameter and contain a single seed. Hawthorn flowers provide nectar for many species of flies and bees, and their berries are enjoyed by many birds including waxwings, thrushes, and bluejays.
Photo: Molly Taylor
While these haws are edible raw, they are most commonly made into jellies, jams, syrups, and wine. Hawthorn berry contains plant polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties that have been linked to numerous health benefits. Specifically hawthorne has remarkable restorative properties for the heart and circulation, and can be extremely effective in regulating heartbeat and managing high blood pressure. To enjoy these properties, try making a cup of tea from dried hawthorn leaves and berries, or turn the berries into a tincture.
Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale), are a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. Valued by Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and in Chinese traditional medicine for millennia, these often dismissed plants possess numerous medicinal properties and play vital roles in ecosystems.
Dandelions feature deeply notched toothy leaves that grow in rotational symmetry and bright yellow flowers. Blooming in early spring, their flowers serve as a nectar source for bees. Dandelion plants can grow up to 12 inches in height, and have a deep taproot that extends several feet into the soil. Their deep roots are crucial to help aerate the soil, and to improve the soil structure. Native to Eurasia, dandelions thrive globally in temperate regions. They can grow in various soil conditions, making them a resilient and widespread plant.
Every part of the dandelion is edible, offering a nutritious and flavorful addition to dishes. Young dandelion leaves can be enjoyed fresh in salads or cooked. The roots, when dried, chopped, and roasted, can be steeped in hot water to make a coffee alternative known as dandelion coffee. The flowers are not only edible and decorative, but can also be used to make dandelion wine.
Traditionally, dandelions have been used to support liver and gallbladder function. Their leaves possess diuretic properties, which helps promote urine production. Dandelion roots can aid digestion by stimulating the digestive system. To enjoy these medicinal effects, try making a cup of tea with the root, leaves, and/or flower of the plant, or create a dandelion tincture.