Yarrow tea is well known as a plant used in natural medicine. It does not cure disease, but it can serve as a supplement to improve health and well-being. If you want to know what yarrow tea is used for, read on!
Yarrow tea is a natural product obtained from a plant known scientifically as ‘Achillea millefolium’ belonging to the Asteraceae family. According to historical sources, ‘Achillea’ is the name given to Achilles, a warrior in Greek mythology who used this plant to heal his soldiers’ wounds. Today, we introduce everything you need to know about yarrow tea.
According to reports, yarrow is noteworthy for its high concentration of phytochemicals including flavonoids, terpenoids, and lignans.
Yarrow Tea Uses
Yarrow Tea Benefits and Uses
In natural medicine, people drink yarrow tea to relieve various digestive symptoms. Likewise, many people believe that yarrow can help heal wounds. However, to date, there is no convincing evidence to confirm these properties. So, like any other herbal remedy, it should be used with caution.
Some research suggests that this plant may offer certain benefits as an herbal tea, extract, or essential oil, but the evidence is inconclusive and should not be considered a substitute for medical treatment. With that in mind, let’s look at some uses.
Yarrow Tea for Digestive Health
In traditional medicine, people have used yarrow tea to aid digestion. In particular, it is believed to help reduce gas and bloating. It is also recommended for use in supplementing problems such as ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
According to a study published in the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicines, the flavonoid and alkaloid content of yarrow seems to help alleviate these digestive problems.
Read Also: Arnica Tea Benefits. Uses and Side Effects
On the other hand, plant extracts have antacid and anti-inflammatory properties, and can protect the body from damage caused by excessive stomach acid. A study published in the <Journal of Ethnopharmacology> demonstrated the anti-ulcer action of Yarrow.
However, more evidence is needed to draw firm conclusions.
Some people believe that yarrow can help reduce gas and bloating.
Yarrow Tea For Wound Healing
Undoubtedly, one of the most traditional uses of yarrow tea is wound healing. In fact, people use yarrow extract to make poultices and ointments for wound healing.
According to an animal study published in the journal <Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica>, the leaves of yarrow contain extracts with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. These benefits appear to have a positive effect on wound healing.
Meanwhile, this study demonstrated that the extract of Yarrow contributes to the increase of fibroblasts. Fibroblasts are the cells responsible for connective tissue regeneration. Therefore, it can help alleviate scarring.
Yarrow Tea Helps Brain Health
Yarrow tea is conducive to good brain function. Although there is little basic evidence in this regard, the results of research on the use of yarrow for cognitive problems seem promising.
According to a report published in the <Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences> , yarrow flavonoids act as adjuvants for neurodegenerative disorders. Specifically, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action of yarrow has a positive effect on the following diseases.
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Stroke
- Epilepsy
Yarrow’s flavonoids may complement the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Yarrow Tea Precautions and Side Effects
Yarrow tea is safe for most healthy adults when consumed in moderate amounts. However, some people are at risk of developing side effects, so be careful. For example, pregnant women should avoid consuming it as it can cause miscarriage.
Because it can affect the menstrual cycle, it is important to be safe not to use it while breastfeeding. People with bleeding disorders or taking anticoagulants should also avoid yarrow as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
Likewise, you should not consume this plant before or after surgery due to the risk of bleeding. People allergic to ragweed or similar plants should also avoid it.
There is no evidence of a safe dose of yarrow tea. This may vary depending on age, health status, and possible diseases. Before taking yarrow or any other natural supplement, you should consult your doctor first.
