Yarrow: The Sacred Healing Herb You Need

Yarrow is a sacred plant to many cultures. In China, yarrow stalks were used to cast the I Ching, to read the future for the emperor. Ayurvedics use the herb as a “heal-all” because it has so many uses – allowing you keep your head in the heavens and your feet on the grounds.

Left Yarrow flowers in early summer. Gather it at this time.

What are the benefits of yarrow for women?

Yarrow offers several valuable health benefits for women. It helps regulate the menstrual cycle, alleviate PMS symptoms, and reduce menstrual pain. Additionally, yarrow is beneficial in gynecology, where it aids in treating inflammatory conditions and supporting reproductive health. In cosmetology, yarrow is used for skincare and haircare, helping to address skin issues and enhance hair condition. Overall, yarrow is a versatile and beneficial plant, promoting both health and appearance in women.

CAUTION

Do not administer Yarrow to children under two years old.
Those with sensitive skin may be irritated when exposed to the sun while using Yarrow.
It should not be used in cases of high Vatha.

Properties

Yarrow is a bitter, pungent, astringent, cooling, and drying. It acts as a diaphoretic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antiphlogistic, antiseptic, and tonic. Yarrow is carminative, alterative, sedative, vulnerary, and emmenagogic.

Part of Plant Used

The leaves, stalks, flowers.

Condition treated

Used for hemorrhages, ulcers, measles, colds, fever, nosebleeds, abscesses, vaginitis, varicose veins, headache, menopause, hemorrhoids, gout, cellulite, acne, sunburn, smallpox, and chicken pox. Yarrow has healing effects on mucous membranes, eases, diarrhea, and improves blood clotting.

Form Taken

Skin patches, lotion, bath, compress, massage oil.

Used With Other Herbs?

Angelica, Cedarwood, cinnamon, clove, lavender, lemon, licorice, myrrh, myrtle, sarsaparilla, St. John wort, turmeric.

How To Use

Yarrow reduced pitta and kapha, it increases vatha with its cooling, drying properties.
Legend has it that Achilles used yarrow to staunch his soldiers’ wounds during the Trojan War. For wound treatment, simply press fresh leaves and flower tops into cuts and scrapes on the way to washing and bandaging them.
As an infusion to relieve menstrual cramps or hot flushes, steep 2 teaspoons of the dried herb in a cup of boiling water for about 10 minutes. Add honey to taste, and drink warm.

Yarrow | Pom