While data in humans are lacking, some people also use yarrow for:
- Bacterial infections 10
- Respiratory viruses like COVID-19 11
- Regulating blood sugar in type 2 diabetes 12
- Anxiety 13
- Protecting the liver and gallbladder 12
- Cancer 14
- Chemotherapy-related toxicities 15
- Cosmetic uses 16
What are the benefits and uses of Yarrow?
Yarrow Medicinal Benefits
- For Cuts and Scrapes. Yarrow ( Achillea millefolium) is most well-known as a first-aid plant and is commonly used for abrasions of the skin.
- Colds and Flus. While the leaves of yarrow are well-known for their use as a styptic and antimicrobial, the flowers of the yarrow plant interact with the body in a ...
- As a Bitter For Digestion. ...
What is Yarrow good for?
Yarrow is considered a bitter so can be used when making bitters. You could use the root which is a bit stronger and/or use the leaves and flowers. So good for digestion. A tea will also help with digestion. As a cholagogue, yarrow assists with the production of bile, improving digestion.
Is Yarrow good for You?
Yarrow is safe for most individuals. However, you should avoid it if you have a bleeding disorder or are pregnant, breastfeeding, undergoing surgery, or allergic to ragweed. Yarrow comes in several forms, including powders, ointments, tinctures, extracts, and dried leaves and flowers.
What does Yarrow do?
- Eases Toothaches: Chew on a yarrow leaf to ease toothache while you wait for your dentist's appointment. ...
- Digestive Complaints: Drink the tea to ease an upset tummy.
- Menstrual Issues: Drink the tea to regulate menstrual flow. ...
- Colds, Fevers, and Flu: The tea may prove helpful in cleansing the system and breaking a fever.
See more
What is yarrow powder good for?
Yarrow contains chemicals that might help to stop stomachcramps and fight infections. People commonly use yarrow for eczema, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), wound healing, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. Yarrow is sometimes called bloodwort.
Who should not take yarrow?
Allergies. If you're allergic to plants that are members of the Asteraceae/Compositae family, you may also be allergic to yarrow. 21 Other plants in the family include: Chrysanthemums.
What are the side effects of yarrow?
Risks, Side Effects and Interactions. When taken by mouth, yarrow can possibly cause drowsiness and increased urination. Topically, it may cause contact dermatitis or skin irritation. Discontinue use if you see signs of irritation.
Does yarrow help with inflammation?
Conclusions: The data obtained in the study showed that the oil yarrow extracts had an evident anti-inflammatory property. Namely, the investigated extracts demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effect in an in vivo double blind randomized study, using a sodium lauryl sulfate test.
What does yarrow cure?
Popular in European folk medicine, 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.
Why is yarrow a problem?
However, yarrow becomes a problem when a paddock is cultivated and a crop sown. The rhizome system allows the yarrow to survive cultivation, so the re-establishing plants cause major competition problems with crop plants. Likewise, yarrow is commonly found in turf.
Does yarrow interact with any medications?
Yarrow may interact with the following medications: Medications to reduce stomach acid -- Because yarrow may increase the production of stomach acid, it can interfere with both over-the-counter and prescription drugs including: Cimetidine (Tagamet) Famotidine (Pepcid)
Is yarrow good for muscle pain?
Registered herbal medicines containing yarrow are used for the symptomatic relief of rheumatic pain and general aches and pains in the muscles and joints, based on traditional use only.
Is yarrow good for kidneys?
Yarrow is an important diaphoretic herb and is a standard remedy for helping the body deal with fever. It also acts on the kidneys as a diuretic. In these ways it normalizes the distribution, secretion and elimination of water in the body.
Is yarrow good for arthritis?
Yarrow aerial parts ethanol extract possess anti-arthritic effect through inhibition of paw inflammation and reduction of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers (reduced TNF-αplasma levels).
Does yarrow make you sleepy?
Yarrow might cause sleepiness and drowsiness. Medications that cause sleepiness are called sedatives. Taking yarrow along with sedative medications might cause too much sleepiness.
What is the best herb to fight inflammation?
9 Herbs and Spices That Fight InflammationGinger. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a delicious spice with a peppery yet sweet flavor. ... Garlic. Garlic (Allium sativum) is a popular spice with a strong smell and taste. ... Turmeric. ... Cardamom. ... Black pepper. ... Ginseng. ... Green tea. ... Rosemary.More items...•
Does yarrow increase blood pressure?
Long considered by herbalists to be a “blood moving herb,” yarrow has been used to stimulate blood circulation and lower blood pressure.
Is yarrow good for kidneys?
Yarrow is an important diaphoretic herb and is a standard remedy for helping the body deal with fever. It also acts on the kidneys as a diuretic. In these ways it normalizes the distribution, secretion and elimination of water in the body.
Does yarrow increase estrogen?
Hormonal Effects Recent research has indicated that yarrow may contain phytoestrogens, which are plant-derived chemicals that act on estrogen receptors in the human body. This allows yarrow to help balance female hormones by covering for a deficiency and blocking an excess of estrogen.
Is yarrow good for acid reflux?
To kick-start the improvements, take herbal bitters such as Centaurium, Yarrow, or Artichoke before meals. The bitter taste triggers the proper production of digestive enzymes, which not only ensures you break your food down efficiently but also tones the sphincter at the top of your stomach to stop food refluxing.
What is yarrow used for?
The above ground parts are used to make medicine. Yarrow is commonly used for diarrhea, gas, asthma , colds, runny nose, arthritis, wounds, skin healing, liver disorders, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. In manufacturing, yarrow is used as a cosmetic cleanser and in shampoos.
How long before surgery can you stop taking yarrow?
Surgery: Yarrow might slow blood clotting so there is a concern that it might increase bleeding during and after surgery. Stop taking yarrow at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Is yarrow a ragweed?
Allergy to ragweed and related plants: Yarrow may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family. Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many others.
Can yarrow cause miscarriage?
In some people, when yarrow comes in contact with the skin, it might cause irritation. Special Precautions and Warnings. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Yarrow is LIKELY UNSAFE when taken by mouth during pregnancy because it can affect the menstrual cycle and might cause miscarriage.
Is yarrow safe to eat?
When taken by mouth: Yarrow is LIKELY SAFE for most people when taken in amounts commonly found in food. However, yarrow products that contain a chemical called thujo ne might not be safe. Yarrow is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth in the amounts found in medicine.
Does yarrow increase stomach acid?
Yarrow might increase stomach acid. By increasing stomach acid, yarrow might decrease the effectiveness of some medications that decrease stomach acid, called H2-Blockers.
Can you take yarrow with anticoagulant?
Do not take this combination. Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with YARROW. Large amounts of yarrow might slow blood clotting. Taking yarrow along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
What is yarrow used for?
Yarrow has been used to induce sweating and to stop wound bleeding. It also has been reported to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and pain. It has been used to relieve GI ailments, for cerebral and coronary thromboses, to lower high blood pressure, to improve circulation, and to tone varicose veins. It has antimicrobial actions, is a natural source for food flavoring, and is used in alcoholic beverages and bitters. Research reveals no clinical data regarding the use of yarrow to treat any medical condition.
Why is yarrow called herba militaris?
In classical times, yarrow was referred to as "herba militaris" because it stopped bleeding wounds received in war. Yarrow leaves have been used for tea, and young leaves and flowers have been used in salads.
What is it used for?
Yarrow is native to Europe and Asia, and has been naturalized in North America. Its use in food and medicine is ancient, dating back to the Trojan War, around 1200 BC. In legend, Achilles used it on the Centaur's advice, hence the name. In classical times, yarrow was referred to as "herba militaris" because it stopped bleeding wounds received in war. Yarrow leaves have been used for tea, and young leaves and flowers have been used in salads. Infusions of yarrow have served as cosmetic cleansers and medicines. Sneezewort leaves (A. ptarmica) have been used in sneezing powder, while those of A. millefolium have been used for snuff. Yarrow has been used therapeutically as a "strengthening bitter tonic" and astringent. Chewing fresh leaves has been suggested to relieve toothaches. Yarrow oil has been used in shampoos for a topical "healing" effect.
Is yarrow a perennial?
The name yarrow applies to any of roughly 80 species of daisy family ( Asteraceae) native to the north temperate zone. A. millefolium is a hardy perennial weed with finely divided leaves and whitish, pink, or reddish flowers. Golden yarrow is Eriophyllum confertiflorum.
What Is Yarrow?
Yarrow ( Achillea millefolium) is a perennial plant from the Asteraceae family. It’s the best-known species of the genus Achillea due to its various therapeutic uses in both folk and conventional medicine.
Why is yarrow good for your skin?
Why is yarrow good for your skin? According to studies, it possesses anti-inflammatory agents that have a positive impact on the skin pH and moisture content.
What herbs are good for menstruation?
Yarrow, rue, motherwort and partridge berry are herbal emmenagogues. As an emmenagogue, achillea millefolium can help stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area, as well as the uterus, and encourage menstruation.
How tall does yarrow grow?
Most plants grow to be two to four feet tall. In the wild, you’ll usually see white yarrow and yellow yarrow. Cerise queen is a bright pink variety. Achillea filipendulina, also known as fern-leaf yarrow, is a variety native to Caucasus, Iran and Afghanistan.
What is the flavor of yarrow?
The flavor of yarrow is sweet but also somewhat bitter with an anise-like scent. It’s often compared to tarragon.
What is a thousand leaf yarrow?
soldier’s woundwort. thousand-leaf. thousand-seal. Cerise queen is a bright pink variety. Achillea filipendulina, also known as fern-leaf yarrow, is a variety native to Caucasus, Iran and Afghanistan. The flowers, leaves and stems are collected when the plant blooms.
Is yarrow a sunflower?
Risks, Side Effects and Interactions. Yarrow, a flower in the sunflower family that’s closely related to chamo mile and chrysanthemum, has been used since ancient times by cultures around the world.
What is yarrow used for?
Yarrow is used in everything from food and drink, to salves and tinctures, to ritual divination and ceremony. This quick list will give you some ideas, but is by no means comprehensive: Stops Bleeding. Skin Toner & Astringent. Bitter Tonic. Treats Cold and Flu. Lowers Blood Pressure. Improves Circulation.
Why do people use yarrow?
Yarrow has been used for millennia to stop bleeding and treat minor wounds. A healing salve helps preserve the herb, and ensures that it’s on hand when needed.
What is yarrow salve good for?
Over the longer term, something like a yarrow salve is wonderful for treating injuries and promoting healing. It’s also commonly employed as an itch remedy topically.
Why are yarrow beers so popular?
There’s a reason yarrow beers (and meads) were popular historically because they lifted you up and sent you home ready to put a few buns in the oven (if you catch my drift). Our own homemade yarrow beer.
Why is yarrow called Victorian white?
If you were looking at paint samples, they’d have the name “Victorian white” or some other fancy title, because in reality, they’re a muted off white color. Yarrow blooming in our yard. Yarrow leaves are also distinctive, and there’s a reason its species name is “ millefolium ” or thousands of leaves.
Where does yarrow grow?
The problem is, while yarrow grows ALMOST everywhere, I happened to grow up in one of the very few places outside of yarrow’s range…the Mojave Desert. Now on my homestead in Vermont, it grows in every untended nook and cranny. We’ll see our first yarrow blooms in early summer, and it’ll keep right on producing through fall, meaning I have a virtually unlimited supply of yarrow (even leaving plenty for the bees).
Is yarrow a common ingredient in beer?
Before hops became common in beer, herbal beers, or gruits, were all the rage. Yarrow was one of the most common brewing ingredients, and it was known to create an extremely intoxicating brew.
What are the constituents of yarrow?
The constituents of yarrow have been reviewed in detail, particularly the essential oil. 6, 7, 8 The plant yields approximately 1% essential oil containing azulene, alpha and beta pinenes, borneol, cineole, and other compounds including chamazulene (also found in chamomile) and trace amounts of thujone, although the composition varies. 1, 7 Other constituents identified include sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, tannins, sterols, alkanes, and fatty acids, among others. 1, 7
What is a yarrow daisy?
The name yarrow applies to approximately 80 species of daisy plants native to the north temperate zone. A. millefolium L. has finely divided leaves and white, pink, or red flowers. It can grow up to 1 m in height. This hardy perennial weed has invasive fibrous rhizomes and blooms from June to November. The whole aerial plant part is used medicinally. Golden yarrow belongs to a distinct genus in the Aster family, Eriophyllum confertiflorum. 1, 2 Yarrow is a member of the daisy (Asteraceae) family that includes aster, chamomile, chrysanthemum, feverfew, ragweed, sunflower, and tansy.
What is the family of golden yarrow?
Golden yarrow belongs to a distinct genus in the Aster family, Eriophyllum confertiflorum. 1, 2 Yarrow is a member of the daisy (Asteraceae) family that includes aster, chamomile, chrysanthemum, feverfew, ragweed, sunflower, and tansy.
Can yarrow extract be used for cancer?
Current research reveals only inconclusive clinical data regarding the use of yarrow extracts in cancer. A study evaluated the additive effect of A. millefolium (12 ppm distillate mixed with standard therapy mouthwash) in oral mucositis in 56 patients with cancer for 14 days, and found clinically significant healing rates. 20
Is yarrow a toxic herb?
Yarrow is not generally considered toxic; however, an antispermatogenic effect has been reported. 1 Safety data are insufficient to support safe use of the herb in cosmetic products. 1, 42 Weak genotoxicity has been reported, 42 and toxic reproductive effects in rats have not been proven. 39
Is yarrow tea safe for epilepsy?
Contact dermatitis is the most commonly reported adverse reaction from yarrow, and its use is contraindicated in known allergies to any members of the Aster family. 1, 40 Data for reported contraindications in epilepsy are lacking. 38 One case report exists documenting anticholinergic adverse effects associated with the consumption of 5 cups of yarrow tea per day for a 1 week. 41
Is yarrow a contraindication?
Yarrow use is contraindicated in known allergies to any members of the Aster family. Data for reported contraindications in epilepsy are lacking.
Why is yarrow used in a flower?
The flower essence of yarrow is used to help people create better boundaries. (Which is interesting that it’s used to help unify a marriage, yes?)
Why do people sprinkle yarrow in their doorways?
They sprinkled yarrow in doorways to help protect against the evils, and used the stems to tell the coming weather – which is a truly lost art.
What is the only herb you need?
Oh Yarrow, Achillea millefolium – one of the most quintessential plants in any herbal materia medica. Often touted as “the only herb you need” and “no herbal first aid kit is complete without it.”
What is the plant that is used for abrasions?
Yarrow ( Achillea millefolium) is most well-known as a first-aid plant and is commonly used for abrasions of the skin.
Why is yarrow named after Achilles?
Yarrow is named after the Greek hero Achilles, but the etymology is otherwise left to folklore. Some say when Achilles was dipped in the River Styx – everywhere but his heel – it was laden with yarrow and the herb helped make him invincible. Others say that he used the plant to heal his soldiers in battle.
Why do flowers help with fever?
Her flowers have historically been used as a diaphoretic, or a sweat inducing agent, to help break a fever and promote perspiration when heat needs to be released from the body.
Where does yarrow grow?
Yarrow is a perennial plant native to North America. It’s easy to grow and it can pretty much grow anywhere – so it’s naturalized around the world.
What is yarrow used for?
It has been used for the treatment of hemorrhage, pneumonia, rheumatic pain, and wound healing in traditional Persian literature.
What is the medicinal use of yarrow?
Here is a bit more in-depth information about the medicinal uses for yarrow—the ultimate homestead and prepper herb. The name Achillea (from the botanical name of Yarrow) is referred to Achilles in the literary Trojan War of the Iliad who used yarrow to treat the soldiers’ wounds.
How long does yarrow tincture last?
Either way, making a tincture is very easy, and they have a shelf-life of 5+ years if stored properly (in a cool dark place). This yarrow tincture is a great tincture to keep on hand. The exact recipe for this yarrow tincture is below in the recipe card.
How long does it take for yarrow to mature?
If you wish to use the root of the yarrow plant, you should allow it to mature for at least 2 to 3 years before harvesting the entire root. Or, you can take bits and pieces of the root each year.
Why did the Ministry of Health use yarrow?
When England experienced a pharmaceutical shortage during WWII, the Ministry of Health recruited children and adults to wild forage for yarrow in order to augment their supply. Dioscorides—a Greek physician, pharmacologist, botanist, and author of De materia medica —used yarrow for dysentery, wounds, and infections.
Why is yarrow used for sleep?
Yarrow can be used as a mild sedative to reduce anxiety and promote sleep . Native Americans and early settlers had medicinal uses for yarrow, too.
How long can you keep yarrow in air tight container?
The leaves, stem, and flowers contribute to the medicinal uses for yarrow. Every part can be used. Store the herb in an air tight container for up to one year.
What animals use yarrow?
Many animals seem to instinctively know about yarrow’s insect-repelling properties, and use the plant for just such a purpose. In fact, many wild birds line their nests with herbs that serve several medicinal purposes. As an example, starlings add yarrow to their chicks’ bedding.
What does yarrow smell like?
2. An Edible Insect Repellant. Yarrow’s frilly leaves smell and taste quite a bit like anise, which is a benefit if you’re fond of licorice.
Why do starlings eat yarrow?
As an example, starlings add yarrow to their chicks’ bedding. Its scent helps to fend off fleas and mites that would otherwise prey on the little ones, and when they eat it, it’ll help develop their immune systems.
How to store dried yarrow?
Alternatively, cut entire plants down just above ground level. Then tie them into bundles and hang them upside-down until they’re dry enough to crunch between your fingers.#N#Store your dried yarrow in paper bags or glass jars in a cool, dry place. Cupboards and medicine chests are ideal as long as they’re away from kitchens, bathrooms, and damp cellars. These dried herbs will remain usable for up to a year: just long enough for the next batch to grow in.
What plant is used to repel insects?
In fact, the fleabane plant ( Erigeron ), which has been used as an effective insect repellant for centuries, is part of the same plant family as yarrow: Asteraceae. Other family members that just happen to also repel insects include chamomile and feverfew.
Does yarrow attract wasps?
Even more impressively, yarrow is known for attracting braconid wasps. These are creepy, but incredibly helpful around the homestead.
Does yarrow help with bleeding?
This means that it helps to stop bleeding by drying out the area and encouraging coagulation. One of its common names is “soldier’s woundwort,” referring to the fact that soldiers carried it in their satchels to staunch bleeding wounds. Yarrow also has antiseptic properties, which helps to prevent infection. [1]
What is yarrow used for?
Yarrow is a plant that has had wide usage over centuries as traditional medicine. It has other names like Achillea, bloodwort, devil's nettle, carpenter's weed, man's pepper, thousand leaves, and staunch. Does it have a wide range of use? As a herbal supplement, it has various benefits for diseases. However, studies show Yarrow has implications for herbal treatments in multiple areas with promising results.
What is the purpose of yarrow in diabetes?
Yarrow helps de-escalate Diabetes symptoms. The flower incorporates some flavonoids that strengthen the insulin discharging cells of the pancreas.
How does Yarrow look?
Yarrow is a small plant that possesses white and hairy flowers with feather-shaped leaves. The plant has some resemblance to sunflowers, daisies, dandelions, and marigolds.
Does yarrow flower help with diabetes?
Yarrow flower includes benefits for diabetic patients by lowering blood sugar levels with its inulin compound. The compound assists glucose in the bloodstream and contributes to cells with the glucose amount they require.
Does yarrow help with insulin?
Moreover, it enhances insulin production and prevents your body from damage and complications from free radicals. Yarrow has high consistency to protect the cells in the pancreas that liberates insulin by preventing inflammation.
Can you use yarrow for diabetics?
Have you ever used Yarrow to treat your diabetic symptoms? Prolonged medical procedures have made an increased number of diabetic patients frustrated. The good news is there is a natural way to help support your disease with fewer side effects. Are you ready to use Yarrow in its generic form or want to benefit from yarrow products?
What Is Yarrow?
What Is It Used for?
- Traditional/Ethnobotanical uses
Yarrow is native to Europe and Asia, and has been naturalized in North America. Its use in food and medicine is ancient, dating back to the Trojan War, around 1200 BC. In legend, Achilles used it on the Centaur's advice, hence the name. In classical times, yarrow was referred to as "herba mil… - Miscellaneous uses
Yarrow has been used to induce sweating and to stop wound bleeding. It also has been reported to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and pain. It has been used to relieve GI ailments, for cerebral and coronary thromboses, to lower high blood pressure, to improve circulation, and to tone varic…
What Is The Recommended Dosage?
- A typical dose of yarrow herb is 4.5 g/day for inflammatory conditions. However, there are no modern clinical studies to validate this dose.
Contraindications
- Yarrow is contraindicated in individuals with an existing hypersensitivity to any member of the Asteraceae family. Information on contraindications of the use of yarrow in epileptic patients is lacking.
Pregnancy/Lactation
- Documented adverse effects. Emmenagogue (to stimulate menstrual flow) and abortive. Avoid use of yarrow's volatile oil during pregnancy.
Further Information
- Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Medical Disclaimer
What Is Yarrow?
Health Benefits
- 1. Helps Protect Skin and Treat Wounds Yarrow has been employed for natural wound treatment for centuries. Why is yarrow good for your skin? According to studies, it possessesanti-inflammatory agents that have a positive impact on the skin pH and moisture content. In addition, it’s a natural antiseptic so it can prevent wounds from getting infected...
Uses
- What is the herb yarrow used for? As explained above, some of the most popular uses include treating: 1. inflammatory skin conditions 2. indigestion and GI issues 3. anxiety 4. insomnia 5. menstrual symptoms 6. allergies 7. cardiovascular/respiratory issues Yarrow uses in cooking include the following: 1. Younger leaves can be used in soups or stews similar to how you woul…
How to Make Yarrow Tea
- Yarrow flowers, leaves and stems can be used to make a medicinal tea. You can use either the fresh or dried flower/leaves. Yarrow tea can taste bitter so you can use honey to take the edge off if needed. Many tea recipes include lemon, which gives a nice boost of vitamin C. Try also combining yarrow with echinacea, elder flower, ginger,and peppermint for additional respiratory …
Risks, Side Effects and Interactions
- When taken by mouth, yarrow can possibly cause drowsiness and increased urination. Topically, it may cause contact dermatitis or skin irritation. Discontinue use if you see signs of irritation. If you’re allergic to plants in the Aster family, like ragweedand daisies, then you may likely be allergic to external and internal use of this herb, so be careful. It can make skin more sensitive to sunligh…