Herb library

Yarrow

Achillea millefolium

Yarrow, Achillea millefolium, is a familiar meadow herb traditionally kept in the household first-aid shelf for its astringent, soothing properties. It is friendly in teas, compresses, and steam inhalations for common, short-term discomforts around the home.

Traditionally used for.

• •Traditionally used as a gentle astringent to help with small cuts and scrapes, applied as a compress or poultice to support drying and mild soothing.
• •Traditionally taken as a warm infusion for mild digestive upset and cramping, sipping in small amounts after meals.
• •Traditionally used as a steam or inhalation for mild nasal congestion and to ease breathing discomfort temporarily.
• •A long-standing household remedy for minor external inflammation and to support skin healing when used as a cooled wash or compress.

Simple preparations.

• •Yarrow infusion (tea): Steep 1 teaspoon dried flowers and leaves per cup of just-boiled water, cover and let steep 10 minutes, strain. Drink up to 2 cups a day when needed.
• •Yarrow cooling compress: Make a strong infusion with 2 tablespoons dried yarrow per pint (16 fl oz) boiling water, steep 15 to 20 minutes, cool to warm or room temperature, soak a clean cloth and apply to the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes, repeat 2 to 3 times daily as needed.
• •Yarrow steam inhalation: Place 2 tablespoons fresh or 1 tablespoon dried yarrow in a bowl of hot water, cover head with a towel, inhale the steam for 5 to 10 minutes, take care not to scald the face; use once or twice a day for short-term nasal congestion.

Cautions.

• !May cause skin sensitivity or allergic contact dermatitis in some people, do a small patch test before wide topical use.
• !Contains compounds that can be irritating to sensitive mucous membranes, avoid prolonged internal use and stop if you get stomach upset or mouth irritation.
• !Not recommended for those with known allergy to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family, such as ragweed, chamomile, or daisies.
• !If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a serious health condition, check with your doctor before using yarrow.

Often kept beside.