Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)) can easily be identified as it has a strong aroma and unique white umbrella, flowering tops with tiny white flowers. This wonderful herbal plant has been used for thousands of years for its potential health benefits. When consumed as an herbal tea, it may help the body combat various health-related problems.
May Help With Cramps
Yarrow contains flavonoids which can help relax the muscles and prevent cramps.
In a clinical trial on almost 100 women with frequent menstrual cramps, a tea made from 4 g yarrow flowers reduced pain better than placebo. The women drank 3 bags/day during the first 3 days over 2 consecutive menstrual cycles.
May Help Reduce Symptoms Of Depression And Anxiety
Due to its alkaloids and flavonoids, consumption of yarrow tea may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Studies demonstrate that plant-based alkaloids, like those in yarrow tea, reduce the secretion of corticosterone, a hormone that’s high during chronic stress.
Helps Protect Skin And Treat Wounds
Yarrow has been used as a natural wound treatment for centuries. Studies revealed that it has anti-inflammatory agents that have a positive impact on skin pH and moisture content. Aside from this, its antiseptic properties also worked great against wounds.
The plant contains a chemical known as achilleine. This important component has the ability to stop wounds from bleeding as well as treat a widespread of skin conditions including rashes and hemorrhoids.
Drink 1-2 cups yarrow tea daily until wound or pain has fully healed — approximately 1-2 weeks.
May Support Digestion
Traditionally, yarrow has been used in treating a range of digestive issues including ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome which causes bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
In a clinical trial on 60 people with IBS, an herbal mix of yarrow, ginger, and Boswellia (3x/day for 1 month) reduced stomach pain and bloating.
Urinary Tract Support
Yarrow is diuretic. It can be a wonderful “carrier” to include urinary antimicrobial herbs for UTIs and other urinary issues to make sure those herbs get to the urinary system.
May Help Reduce Inflammation
Yarrow has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm inflammation for a variety of health issues, especially inflammation in the intestines and female reproductive tract. Researchers believe that these effects were mainly attributed to its flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones.
Yarrow may reduce skin and liver inflammation, which could help treat skin infections, signs of skin aging, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
How To Make A Yarrow Tea
Add 1 teaspoon of dried yarrow flower to one cup of boiling water. Cover and steep for 30 minutes, then strain and drink; sweeten with some honey for additional benefits.
