Yarrow
What is Yarrow?
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.
Scientific Name(s)
Achillea millefolium
Common Name(s)
Yarrow also is known as thousand-leaf, mil foil, green arrow, wound wort, and nosebleed plant.
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 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.
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 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.
Related/similar drugs
turmeric, Ginkgo Biloba
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.
Interactions
None well documented.
Side Effects
Contact dermatitis is the most commonly reported side effect.
Toxicology
Yarrow generally is not considered toxic.
References
More about yarrow
Professional resources
Related treatment guides
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
