
Yarrow has been used as a remedy for various health problems since ancient times. For example, you can use them for digestive or menstrual problems.
Yarrow is widespread worldwide. In the summer months it grows in meadows and pastures. Her “herb” in particular is known to help with various illnesses. The herb consists of the dried flowers, stems and flowering shoot tips of the plant.
Yarrow is said to be very effective for digestive problems, menstrual problems, loss of appetite and skin inflammation. Teas, tinctures and bath additives can be made from its components. It is easy to administer and largely free of side effects. By the way, it contains similar ingredients to chamomile – which is why it is used in a very similar way.
Yarrow: The medicinal plant is effective for these complaints

(Photo: CC0 / Pixabay / Wokandapix)
You can use yarrow for various ailments and minor illnesses. In addition to tannins and bitter substances, the herb and flowers also contain essential oils and alkaloids. According to NABU, yarrow can therefore have an anti-inflammatory, stomach-strengthening and antispasmodic effect.
This is how the medicinal plant supports your body:
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Gastrointestinal: Yarrow can be used for mild gastrointestinal complaints. It is said to have a calming and circulation-stimulating effect and therefore also helps with abdominal pain, flatulence, constipation and diarrhea.
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Bile: According to NABU, yarrow can promote the flow of bile and thus relieve feelings of fullness and nausea.
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Respiratory tract: Yarrow essential oil in particular is considered to be anti-inflammatory. If you have a cold or other upper respiratory problems, you can rub it on your chest and, according to Netdoktor, activate the mucous membranes.
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Menstruation: Since yarrow has an antispasmodic and calming effect, it can relieve menstrual problems such as abdominal cramps and nausea.
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Skin: The remedy is also often used for skin problems or wounds. According to Netdoktor, it has an antibacterial, blood-purifying and calming effect. Therefore, the home remedy is often used for skin inflammation, abrasions or sunburn.
Using yarrow: How to relieve your symptoms

(Photo: CC0 / Pixabay / dungthuyvunguyen)
To relieve symptoms, you can use the herb of yarrow. The medicinal plant can be made into tea, bath additives or tinctures – you can therefore use it internally and externally.
However, you should be careful if you are prone to allergies or hypersensitivity to daisy plants or yarrow in particular. Even if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should discuss the use of yarrow with a medical professional in advance.
This is how you can use yarrow:
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As a tea: Pour 200 milliliters of boiling water over two teaspoons of yarrow herb. After ten to 15 minutes you can strain the yarrow. You can drink the tea three times a day. Yarrow tea is particularly often used for menstrual problems. You can find out when you can still use the tea here: Yarrow tea: Effects and application of the remedy.
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As a bath additive: Pour one liter of boiling water over 100 grams of flowers and herbs. Let the brew steep for 20 minutes. You can then add the liquid to your bath water. Sitz baths with yarrow relieve digestive problems and relieve cramps.
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As a tincture: To make a tincture, you need 45 grams of yarrow herb and 250 milliliters of 70 percent alcohol. Let both ingredients steep for eight days and then strain them. You can then use the tincture and take 20 drops with water or tea up to three times a day.
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As a wrap: Pour half a liter of steaming water over two teaspoons of yarrow herb. Now prepare a hot water bottle. After steeping for five minutes, you can strain the herb. Now soak a clean cotton cloth with the water, wring it out and place it on your ribs. Place the hot water bottle over the cotton cloth. Make sure the wrap is not too hot. The warmth should be pleasant – this way it stimulates blood circulation and relieves cramps and other complaints. After 20 to 30 minutes you should take the wrap off again.
Collect yarrow
You can also collect yarrow yourself. The ideal time for this is when it is in full bloom. This is the case in the months of June, July and August. This is when the plant contains the most essential oils. Yarrow is found throughout Europe, but you should collect it in areas that are as untouched as possible and away from roads and industrial areas. The daisy family often grows in meadows, on embankments or along roadsides.
Caution: Yarrow looks confusingly similar to some poisonous herbs such as spotted hemlock or giant hogweed. If you want to collect the medicinal herb yourself, you should look at the plants carefully and, if possible, ask an herbalist companion for a second opinion.
Read more on Techzle\.com:
- Chamomile tea: Everything about the effects of the medicinal plant
- Gastrointestinal: Home remedies for the symptoms
- Calming tea: These varieties help with stress and inner tension
English version available: Herbal Remedies: 5 Yarrow Benefits and Uses
Revised by Lena Kirchner
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