The Herb Prof Team researches and writes our herbal guides, drawing on published research, traditional herbal references, and hands-on growing experience.
The flowering plant Herb Yarrow, scientifically known as Achillea millefolium, has been valued for its medicinal properties for centuries. Yarrow has a rich history of use across various cultures, including the ancient Greeks, Native Americans, and Chinese. It has traditionally been described as having astringent and antispasmodic qualities.
Yarrow has traditionally been used as a home remedy for digestive upset, menstrual discomfort, and minor skin irritation, and as a warm tea during colds and fevers. It is available as teas, tinctures, and capsules.
While most people generally consider Yarrow safe, make sure to consult with a healthcare provider before using it as a treatment for any medical condition. Some people may experience side effects from yarrow, such as allergic reactions or increased risk of bleeding. With proper use and guidance, yarrow can be a valuable addition to a natural medicine cabinet.
Herb Yarrow Benefits – What is Yarrow?
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a flowering plant species in the Asteraceae family, which also includes ragweed and chrysanthemum. Yarrow, a native to Europe, North America, and Asia, has been a medicinal superstar in various cultures in the Northern Hemisphere for thousands of years.
Description of Plant – Herb Yarrow Benefits
Yarrow is a perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. Yarrow sports fern-like leaves that are finely divided and feathery. The plant produces clusters of small, white or pink flowers that bloom from June to September.
Parts Used – Herb Yarrow Benefits
The aerial parts of the yarrow plant, including the leaves and flowers, are used for medicinal purposes.
Available Forms – Herb Yarrow Benefits
Yarrow is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, tinctures, and teas. It can also be used topically in creams, ointments, and poultices.
How to Take It – Herb Yarrow Benefits
Yarrow can be taken orally or applied topically. The dosage and form of yarrow depend on the condition being treated. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before using yarrow for medicinal purposes.
Pediatric and Adult Dosage – Herb Yarrow Benefits
There is no standard dosage for yarrow. The dosage and form of yarrow depend on the condition being treated, age, and overall health of the individual. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before using yarrow for medicinal purposes.
Precautions – Herb Yarrow Benefits
Yarrow may cause allergic reactions in individuals who are allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family. It may also interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and sedatives. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before using yarrow for medicinal purposes.
Possible Interactions – Herb Yarrow Benefits
Yarrow may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and sedatives. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before using yarrow for medicinal purposes.
Benefits and Uses of Yarrow – Herb Yarrow Benefits
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a perennial herb that is native to temperate regions of North America, Asia, and Europe. It has been used for centuries in traditional folk medicine for its various health benefits. Here are the main traditional uses of yarrow and what the research says.
Wound Healing – Herb Yarrow Benefits
Yarrow has been used for centuries as a folk remedy for minor cuts and scrapes, applied as a poultice. Laboratory studies suggest it has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, but there is little good human evidence, and it is no substitute for cleaning and caring for a wound properly. Seek medical care for deep or bleeding wounds.
Skin Inflammation – Herb Yarrow Benefits
Yarrow contains flavonoids that have shown anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory studies, and it is traditionally used in ointments for minor skin irritation. Human evidence is limited, and anyone allergic to plants in the daisy family should avoid it on the skin.
Dysmenorrhea
Yarrow has traditionally been used as a tea for menstrual cramps because of its antispasmodic reputation. Clinical evidence is limited, so it should not replace medical advice for painful or heavy periods. Yarrow should not be used during pregnancy.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Yarrow has traditionally been used as a bitter tea for digestive upset. Evidence for IBS specifically is lacking, and persistent digestive symptoms need medical evaluation.
Other Studied Conditions
Yarrow has also been used traditionally for colds, fevers, hemorrhoids, rashes, toothaches, and muscle spasms. These uses rest on tradition, with little modern research behind them. Yarrow has a long history of traditional use, but modern research is limited. It is best treated as a traditional herb, not a proven treatment.
Side Effects and Warnings
Yarrow has been used medicinally for centuries, but it is important to be aware of potential side effects and warnings associated with its use. This section covers common and severe side effects, pregnancy and breastfeeding, use with children, allergies, and bleeding risk.
Common Side Effects
Yarrow is generally considered safe when used in moderation, but some people may experience common side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended to stop using yarrow immediately.
Severe Side Effects
In rare cases, yarrow can cause severe side effects such as contact dermatitis, allergic reaction, and increased risk of bleeding. People who are allergic to plants in the aster family, such as chrysanthemums and daisies, may be more likely to experience an allergic reaction to yarrow. Additionally, yarrow can interact with certain medications, such as lithium and diazepam (Valium), so it is important to talk to your doctor before using yarrow if you are taking any prescription medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Concerns
Avoid yarrow during pregnancy. It has traditionally been used to bring on menstruation, which is a concern for a pregnancy. There is also not enough research on breastfeeding, so it is best avoided then too.
Use With Infants and Children
Yarrow is not recommended for use in infants and young children due to the lack of research on its safety and effectiveness in this population.
Allergies
If you are allergic to plants in the aster family, such as chrysanthemums and daisies, you may be more likely to experience an allergic reaction to yarrow. Additionally, some people may experience contact dermatitis when using yarrow topically.
Increased Risk of Bleeding
Yarrow may increase the risk of bleeding, especially when used in combination with blood-thinning medications or before surgery. If you are taking any medications that increase the risk of bleeding, it is important to talk to your doctor before using Yarrow.
Overall, yarrow has many potential health benefits, but it is important to be aware of potential side effects and warnings associated with its use. If you experience any adverse effects, it is recommended to stop using Yarrow immediately and consult with your healthcare provider.
Dosage and Interactions
Recommended Dosage
There is no established dose for yarrow. Commercial products vary widely, so follow the directions on the label and ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it regularly. Yarrow tea is the mildest form, usually made from 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb steeped in a cup of hot water.
Potential Interactions
Yarrow may interact with certain medications and other herbs. According to WebMD, yarrow may interact with drugs that increase sensitivity to sunlight, such as tetracycline antibiotics and some sulfa drugs. Herb yarrow may also interact with blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin.
Yarrow may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies. Yarrow should also be used with caution in people who have anxiety disorders, as it may worsen symptoms.
How to Store Yarrow
To preserve the health benefits of yarrow, it is important to store it properly. According to Examine.com, yarrow should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can store dried yarrow leaves in an airtight container for up to six months.
Similar Supplements
If you are interested in trying other herbs with similar health benefits to yarrow, consider chamomile, valerian root, and passionflower. These herbs have been used in folk medicine for centuries to promote sleep, reduce anxiety, and ease digestive issues.
Tips for Growing and Using Yarrow in a Garden
Yarrow is a hardy plant that is easy to grow in a garden. According to Verywell Health, yarrow prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Yarrow can be used in a variety of ways in a garden, including as a border plant, a ground cover, or a companion plant for vegetables.
Other Surprising Uses for Yarrow
In addition to its health benefits, yarrow has a variety of other uses. According to Dr Axe, yarrow can be used to repel insects, treat wounds, and even dye fabric yellow. Yarrow has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to reduce fever and promote sweating.
Before You Go – Herb Yarrow Benefits
Yarrow is a versatile herb that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It has traditional uses as a bitter, astringent, sweat-promoting herb.
Yarrow can be consumed in various forms, including tea, tincture, and capsules. It can also be used topically in the form of a poultice or salve for wound healing and skin conditions.
While Yarrow is generally considered safe, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication.
Overall, yarrow is a traditional herb with limited modern evidence, best used with a healthcare professional’s guidance.
References – Herb Yarrow Benefits
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley
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Frequently Asked Questions – Herb Yarrow Benefits
How can yarrow be used to stop bleeding?
Yarrow has traditionally been used as a styptic on minor cuts, with the crushed leaves applied to the skin. It should never be used for serious or internal bleeding, which needs urgent medical care. Taken internally, yarrow may also increase the risk of bleeding.
Which part of yarrow is medicinal?
The aerial parts of the yarrow plant, including the leaves and flowers, are used medicinally. These parts of the plant contain flavonoids, alkaloids, and volatile oils that are the focus of research
What are the uses of yarrow?
Yarrow has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history. It has been used to treat wounds, fevers, digestive issues, and menstrual cramps. Yarrow has also been used as a diuretic and to promote sweating.
What are the benefits and side effects of yarrow tea?
Yarrow tea has traditionally been used during colds, flu, and digestive upset. It has also been used as a diuretic and to promote sweating. However, yarrow tea can have side effects, including allergic reactions, nausea, and vomiting.
What is yarrow tincture used for?
Yarrow tincture is a concentrated form of yarrow extract that is used for medicinal purposes. It has traditionally been used for digestive issues, menstrual cramps, and fever. Yarrow tincture should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Why is yarrow sometimes referred to as Devil’s Nettle?
Yarrow is sometimes referred to as Devil’s Nettle because of its association with the devil in folklore. It was believed that yarrow could be used to ward off evil spirits and protect against witchcraft. The term “nettle” may have been used because yarrow leaves have a similar appearance to nettle leaves.