The species vary from 1 m shrubs up to 20 m trees; some are deciduous, but the majority of species are evergreen. The roots have nitrogen-fixing bacteria which enable the plants to grow on soils that are very poor in nitrogen content. The leaves are spirally arranged, simple, oblanceolate with a tapered base and broader tip, and a crinkled or finely toothed margin. The flowers are catkins, with male and female catkins usually on separate plants (dioecious). The fruit is a small drupe, usually with a wax coating. The type species, Myrica gale, is holarctic in distribution, growing in acidic peat bogs throughout the colder parts of the Northern Hemisphere; it is a deciduous shrub growing to 1 m tall. The remaining species all have relatively small ranges, and are mostly warm-temperate. Has an affinity for the cardiovascular, respiratory and gastrointestinal system when they are overburdened by hardened mucus. Within the cardiovascular system it works as an astringent and vessel toner, steadily increasing circulation and creating a positive outward flow of blood. In the gastrointestinal system it works as a tonic to resole damp conditions and promote healthy breakdown and absorption. Inhibits or slows bleeding, arrests diarrhea and loosens phlegm to aid discharge. Warms the body, enabling body systems to work effeciently.

Use with caution during pregnancy

A seaweed, contains iodine, alginic acid, and fucoidan. Iodine is an essential mineral for the thyroid, uterus, breasts, and prostate. Alginic acid is a type of fiber to help acid reflux and acts as an appetite suppressant. Fucoidan is shown to reduce inflammation and improve arthritis, diabetes, and inflammatory conditions.

NOT for use with hyperthyroidism or Graves' disease. Use with caution for Hashimoto's thyroiditis and during pregnancy.

Can be used internally to relax the nerves and combat anxiety. Helpful for nervous exhaustion from long-term stress or fanatical, hard-driving personalities and for people who suffer from neck and shoulder pain (knots). Can alleviate some types of headaches, includes migraines associated with PMS. It is helpful for many spasmodic nervous disorders as well as mild pains and colds, flu and respiratory congestion. Helpful for surface, peripheral nervous system problems, neuralgias, and some skin problems. Some spasmodic nervous disorders, including tics, palsy, and Tourette's syndrome. Can be helpful for mild pains, colds, flu, and respiratory congestion.

Extremely large doses can cause nausea and vomiting. May stimulate a miscarriage though in normal doses was used traditionally to protect against miscarriage.

Seed oil is high in GLA, type of fatty acid. Internally for inflammation, skin conditions, and arthritis. Leaf supports adrenal function and lifts sadness and depression.

The herb (not seed) contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids and should be used with caution. Not for use during pregnancy.

Mild narcotic and anodyne. Potent sedative known as a remedy for migraine headaches, neuralgia, treatment of insomnia caused by pain, nervous tension, and stress. Anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic, useful for painful menstrual cramps. Combined with other herbs to treat musculoskeletal pain of arthritis and rheumatism. Mixes extremely well with Corydalis for pain relief.

Tincture: 10 drops to 3ml every 4 hours.

Use very cautiously with pregnant women or hypotension. May increase effectiveness of sedative medication.

Distinctive soft, velvety leaves. Commonly used in the treatment of infections, wounds, digestive disorders, common cold, rheumatic disorders, and neuropathy. Whole leaves work well with yarrow powder as a bandage. Its cooling and astringent nature make it suitable for various conditions related to inflammation and minor injuries, both internally and externally.

Tincture: 1 - 2ml 3/day Standard infusion 2-6 oz 3/day

Possible interactions with blood pressure medications, and of course if pregnant or breastfeeding consult your physician before use. If you have known allergies to mint or related plants, use caution or avoid use altogether.

Yarrow is known for its astringent and styptic properties and is commonly used to stop bleeding and promote wound healing. Yarrow contains flavonoids, plant-based chemicals that increase saliva and stomach acid to help improve digestion. Yarrow may also relax smooth muscle in the intestine and uterus, which can relieve stomach and menstrual cramps

Avoid in pregnancy.