Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries for its numerous health benefits.
Yarrow has been traditionally used for a variety of medicinal purposes, including treating wounds, menstrual cramps, digestive issues, respiratory ailments, colds and flu symptoms, fever, leucorrhea, malaria, insomnia, urolithiasis, some liver diseases, urinary incontinence, pain relief and inflammation.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) contains a complex mixture of bioactive compounds that work together to produce its medicinal effects. These include:
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These are bitter compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties. They are believed to be responsible for yarrow’s ability to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Flavonoids: These are antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. They are believed to contribute to yarrow’s ability to protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Alkaloids: These are bitter compounds that have a variety of pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial, antipyretic, and analgesic effects. They are believed to be responsible for yarrow’s ability to reduce fever and pain.
- Tannins: These are astringent compounds that have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. They are believed to contribute to yarrow’s ability to soothe irritated skin and mucous membranes.
- Volatile oils: These are aromatic compounds that have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. They are believed to contribute to yarrow’s ability to reduce pain and inflammation and promote wound healing.
While some of these compounds have been isolated and studied in detail, the synergistic effects of the whole plant are still not fully understood.
Yarrow herb (Achillea millefolium) is commonly known for its hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antispasmodic properties.
Hemostatic properties refer to the ability of yarrow to stop bleeding by promoting clotting, while anti-inflammatory properties refer to the ability of yarrow to reduce inflammation in the body such as arthritis, digestive disorders and skin inflammation.
Antispasmodic properties refer to the ability of yarrow to relieve muscle spasms and cramps.
Some studies have suggested that yarrow may have hepatoprotective properties and could potentially be beneficial for liver health.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has been used in traditional medicine for various healing benefits
Antimicrobial
Yarrow has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off bacterial and viral infections, which can be the cause of fever, colds, and flu. Yarrow extracts may be effective against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, which is a common cause of skin infections.
Pain relief
Yarrow has been traditionally used as a natural pain reliever. Some studies have suggested that yarrow may have analgesic properties that may help to reduce pain associated with various health conditions.
Wound Healing
Yarrow has been traditionally used to stop bleeding and promote wound healing. Its astringent and hemostatic properties help to stop bleeding and promote blood clotting, while its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation and promote tissue regeneration, which may help to speed up the healing process.
Digestive Health
Yarrow has been used to support digestive health by stimulating digestion and improving nutrient absorption. Its bitter compounds may also help to stimulate digestion.
Menstrual Health
Yarrow is known for its ability to regulate menstrual cycles and relieve menstrual cramps. Its antispasmodic properties can help to ease muscle spasms and cramps associated with menstruation.
Skin Health
Yarrow has been used to promote skin health and treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can help to reduce inflammation and fight off bacteria.
Respiratory Health
Yarrow has been used to treat respiratory infections such as colds and flu. Its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-stimulating properties make it a popular choice for treating respiratory infections.
Blood Pressure Regulation
Yarrow may help to regulate blood pressure by promoting blood flow and reducing inflammation. Its diuretic properties may also help to reduce fluid retention and lower blood pressure.
Insomnia, Anxiety and Stress Relief
Yarrow is used to relieve anxiety and stress by promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system. Some research has suggested that it may have sedative properties and can be used as a sleep aid.
Benefits of yarrow for fever, colds, and flu
Yarrow has been traditionally used to treat fever, colds, and flu symptoms.
Fever
Yarrow help to reduce fever due to its ability to induce sweating, which helps to regulate body temperature. Its diaphoretic properties stimulate sweating and help to eliminate toxins from the body. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation associated with fever
Colds
Yarrow is known for its antiviral properties that can help fight the viruses that cause colds. It also has anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties that can help relieve the symptoms of colds, clear congestion in the respiratory system, making it easier to breathe, cough, and sore throat.
Immune Boosting
Yarrow can help alleviate the symptoms of flu by boosting the immune system and increase resistance to infections. It contains compounds that can stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections. Yarrow can also help reduce fever and relieve the symptoms of flu.
Here are some of the most common ways to use yarrow:
- Tea: Yarrow tea is a popular way to use this herb. To prepare yarrow tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried yarrow leaves or flowers in a cup of boiling water for about 10-15 minutes. Once the tea has steeped, strain it and allow it to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature. You can then drink the tea up to 3 times a day, as needed, to help reduce fever, alleviate cold and flu symptoms, and aid digestion
- Topically: Yarrow can also be used topically to promote skin health and healing. Yarrow oil or salve can be applied directly to the skin to soothe inflammation, wounds, and skin irritations. Yarrow oil can also be added to a bath to soothe sore muscles and promote relaxation.
- Capsules: Yarrow capsules are available in health food stores and online. These capsules can be taken orally to promote digestive health, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation.
- Tincture: Yarrow tincture is a concentrated liquid extract of the herb. It can be taken orally to promote digestive health and relieve menstrual cramps. Yarrow tincture can also be applied topically to relieve pain and inflammation.
How to make tincture at home
You can also make a yarrow tincture by steeping fresh or dried yarrow leaves and flowers in high-proof alcohol (such as vodka) for a few weeks. Strain the mixture and store the tincture in a dark bottle. Dilute 5-10 drops of the tincture in water and drink it thrice a day.
- Yarrow Essential Oil: Yarrow essential oil can be diluted with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) and applied topically to reduce fever. Mix a few drops of yarrow essential oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil and massage it on the soles of your feet or on your temples.
- Yarrow compress: for wounds and conjunctivitis
Brew a strong cup of yarrow tea and allow it to cool. Soak a clean cloth in the tea and place it over the affected eye for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this process several times a day.
It’s important to note that yarrow should not be used in large quantities or for extended periods of time, as it can have side effects such as skin irritation and gastrointestinal upset. It’s also important to consult with a healthcare professional before using yarrow, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication.