Yarrow: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects of Achillea millefolium - Herbal Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

Yarrow, also known as Achillea millefolium, is a perennial herb that is widely used for medicinal purposes. It is native to Europe and Asia, but it can also be found in North America. Yarrow is a hardy plant that is known for its feathery leaves and small, white, or pink flowers. It has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and its use dates to ancient Greek mythology.

2. Morphology

It is an erect herb, 30 to 60 cm high with fine soft hair. It has leafy, grooved stems and alternate, oblong tapering leaves. The flowers are small and crowded with thin scales. The fruits are flat, oblong-shaped, and shining. 

3. Chemical Compound

The Yarrow herb contains volatile oil, lactones, flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, saponins, sterols, a bitter glycoalkaloid, cyanidin, amino acids, and acid sugars.

4. Habitat

Yarrow is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of habitats. It is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to North America and other parts of the world. It abounds in the Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon.

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5. What are the other common names of yarrow?

• Bloodwort
• Rojmari
• Gandana
• Milfoil
• Biranjasif
• Common yarrow
• Western yarrow
• Sneezewort
• Devil's nettle
• Green arrow
• Old man's pepper
• Plumajillo
• Carpenter's weed
• Sanguinary
• Staunchweed

6. What are the health benefits and Uses of yarrow?

Yarrow has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties for centuries, it is a bitter, aromatic, stimulant, and tonic. It is useful in arresting bleeding; it includes copious perspiration. Yarrow tea has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments. It useful for treating conditions such as menstrual cramps, digestive issues, and headaches. 

Wound healing:

Yarrow or Bloodwort is an effective wound healer, the tannins it contains are probably responsible for this property. It is good for all kinds of bleeding, both external and internal.

Fever:

Yarrow is one of the best-known herbal remedies for fevers, a hot infusion of the herb induces perspiration which cools fevers and expels toxins.

Digestive health:

It is a valuable remedy for several stomach disorders like colic, heartburn and flatulence. About 30 grams of its decoction taken every hour is the recommended treatment. A dessertspoon of fresh juice of the herb, taken thrice a day, aids digestion and relieves gastric disorders.

High blood Pressure:

The herb is useful in treating high blood pressure. Like all sweat-inducing remedies, yarrow encourages blood flow to the skin which helps lower blood pressure. It is the alkaloid in yarrow which has been reported to lower blood pressure.

Menstrual health:

Yarrow can help regulate menstrual cycles and relieve menstrual cramps. A hot infusion of the leaves is a powerful emmenagogue (a drug that induces menses) and is thus useful in promoting and regulating menstrual cycles. In case of irregular menstrual flow, about 30 grams of decoction of the herb can be taken every hour with beneficial results. The essential oil extracted from its flowers is beneficial in treating disorders of the female reproductive organs. About 5 to 30 drops of oil are suggested for treating such disorders.

Piles:

Yarrow arrests bleeding, a decoction or infusion of the herb is beneficial in bleeding piles, and the powdered leaves and flower heads are useful as carminative to relieve flatulence when given in a 3 to 30-centigram dose.

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7. How to prepare and consume Yarrow tea?

To prepare yarrow tea, boil water and add 1-2 teaspoons of dried yarrow in a tea pan. Let it steep for 5-10 minutes before removing the infuser or strainer. You can add honey or lemon to taste. 

8. What are the potential side effects of yarrow?

While yarrow is generally considered safe when used appropriately, it may cause some side effects in certain individuals. Some of the potential side effects of yarrow include:

Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to yarrow and may experience allergic reactions such as skin rashes, itching, and difficulty breathing.

Gastrointestinal upset: Yarrow may cause gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, particularly in individuals who are sensitive to its bitter taste.

Increased bleeding: Yarrow may increase the risk of bleeding, particularly when taken in large amounts or in combination with blood-thinning medications.

Photosensitivity: Yarrow may increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburn or skin damage.

Drug interactions: Yarrow may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, sedatives, and anti-inflammatory drugs, which may lead to adverse effects.

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