Herbal Uses of the Dried Yarrow Root and Flower

Yarrow is a perennial herb with fernlike leaves and flowers that look like miniature daisies. This herb blossoms from June to September. It can grow to three feet tall. Yarrow is native to Europe and naturalized throughout the world.

Tea

• Steep 1 to 2 tsp. of dried leaves and flowers in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes. Strain the tea and cool. This tea can be drunk up to three times a day.

Digestive Aid

• Yarrow contains azulene, a volatile oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties for the digestive system. Use yarrow internally for loss of appetite, indigestion and heartburn.

Analgesic

• Yarrow is full of salicylic acid, which is a substance that acts like aspirin. Take orally to treat fever, pain and menstrual cramps.

Topical

• Alkaloids in yarrow help blood clot faster. A yarrow topical ointment can stop bleeding from wounds and fight infections.

Warning

• Yarrow belongs to the aster family that contains daisies and ragweed. If you are allergic to daises, do not take yarrow. Yarrow also contains thujone, which is a muscle relaxant and has been known to cause miscarriages in pregnant women.