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Herbal Remedies Information - Yarrow

This article is part of a series giving information about herbs and their medicinal properties. We are going to look at yarrow in this article. You will find out what this herb is, how you can use it and the conditions that could be helped by yarrow.

What is Yarrow?

Yarrow is a perennial that grows naturally throughout both Europe and North America. There are a large number of different varieties that are thought to have fern like foliage. The plant has a single long stem that grows to a height of between 25 and 50 cm (10 to 20 inches). The stems can be rough and slightly hairy. The leaves can be feather like and can grow quite large in size, up to 15 cm (6 inches). The plant usually flowers from June until October and the flowers appear in flat top clusters that appear at the top of the stems. The colours vary between rose, lilac and creamy white.

How to use Yarrow

If you are looking to use yarrow for a remedy then you should pick the plant when it is in flower and in fact the leaves, stem and flowers can be used in remedies. In order to use the plant you can cut the leaves off and lay them out in order to dry. You can then hang the stems and flowers upside down to dry out and once dry remove the flowers for storage.

There are a variety of different remedies you can create using the herb, for example you can make a tea out of the leaves. The best way to do this is to place the leaves in a cup or glass and to then cover with boiling water. You should then allow the mixture to infuse for around 10 minutes, stirring on a regular basis. You can then strain the mixture and drink. You should limit your intake to 3 cups per day.

You can also use the fresh herb to make a tincture. The best way to do this is to combine about 115g (4 oz) with about 500 ml (1 pint) of brandy, gin or vodka. You should then place this in a sealed container for about 2 weeks and shake it a few times a day. After the two week period you should then strain the mixture and it can be used by placing about 10 drops in a glass water a couple of times per day.

Uses of Yarrow

Yarrow has been studied by scientists and they have found over a hundred active ingredients suggesting there could be a large number of benefits associated with this herb. The plant can be used both externally and internally making it very useful indeed.

For external purposes the herb is thought to be very beneficial at treating wounds and stopping bleeding. For example it is thought that place a leave inside the nostril could help to stop a nose bleed. It is also thought that applying an infusion of the plant onto the skin can help to heal rashes, haemorrhoids and skin ulcers. It can also be very helpful for cuts and abrasions. Some people even believe that using a product containing yarrow on your hair could help to prevent baldness.

A long time ago yarrow root in whiskey has been used as an anaesthetic as well as being used to stop internal bleeding. It is thought to be a digestive tonic and to promote the flow of bile. It is also thought to be a great remedy for people suffering from flu, colds or a fever as it can help to bring on sweating. This is also thought to be useful in the early stages of measles or chickenpox. It can also be helpful for toothache, migraines, high blood pressure and removing blood clots.

Side Effects and Precautions

The herb may build up in the system and so people should avoid using large doses for long periods of time. In addition pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid the herb. In terms of side effects the herb may causes skin rashes or photosensitivity after ingestion. The herb is not known to interact with any medications but if you have any concerns you should talk to your doctor.