The yarrow - also known as Achillea in botanical terminology - is said to have more than one healing effect and can be used for various problems. The herb and flowers can be used externally as well as internally and is similar in its effects to chamomile. It can therefore be worthwhile to plant the plant yourself and keep it ready for fresh or dry use.
Characteristics
Under the term yarrow or in the group of Achillea, several varieties are summarized, which, however, differ little in appearance. Laypeople therefore usually do not recognize the exact type. The plants are generally 30 to 100 centimeters high and have small white to pink flowers in double panicles. The strong main stems are multiply branched, dark green and slightly hairy.
Toxic or not?
The Achillea themselves are not poisonous in any part of the plant. However, there is a risk of confusion between representatives of this group and plants that are poisonous. These include the spotted hemlock (Conium maculatum) and the giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum).
The spotted hemlock is noticeable for its ammonia- to mouse-urine-like odor. A distinction between yarrow species and the giant hogweed is mainly possible due to the shape of the leaves. A photo of the plant can therefore be used for orientation when collecting. In any case, it is safer to use the useful ones
Plant the yarrow family yourself.Possible applications
Both leaves, stems and flowers can be used, used internally and externally. Typical applications are:
- fresh or dried as tea
- as an additive in ointment
- as a bath additive
- fresh flowers as a broth for hair care
In any case, preparation before use is comparatively simple and does not take much time. However, different preparations are recommended for the various areas of application.
Take care of your hair
Yarrow flowers can add shine to hair, add volume, create a feeling of lightness, and make it easier to comb. The preparation for a nourishing conditioner is also very easy, all you have to do is take the following steps:
- Harvest four lightly heaped tablespoons of the freshest yarrow flowers possible. If these are only available dry, three tablespoons are sufficient.
- Place the flowers in a heatproof bowl or bottle.
- Boil a liter of water and pour over the flowers. Cover or close the container and let the infusion steep for at least 30 minutes.
- After steeping, the infusion is sifted to remove the flowers. Alternatively, the flowers can also be placed directly in a tea bag or in a tea strainer, making them much easier to remove.
- When the brew has cooled to a comfortable temperature, it can be used as a conditioner for the hair. It is distributed on the scalp and hair after washing and is not washed out.
Digestion and Weight Loss
For mild digestive disorders, such as bloating and flatulence, a tea infusion made from yarrow should also be helpful. One to two teaspoons of the flowers or finely chopped leaves are sufficient for 150 milliliters. Again, the medicinal herb can be used dry or fresh.
The tea can be used both to regulate digestion and to lose weight because it contains bitter substances. These should curb the appetite and stimulate fat burning. As a result, the tea can also serve as a support for losing weight.
Tip: However, as with all other medicinal herbs, excessive amounts of the tea can cause side effects. Adults are allowed to drink three to four cups a day.
Wounds
Similar to chamomile, Achillea also has a disinfecting and slightly astringent effect. In this way, it can contribute to wound healing. Yarrow ointment is wonderfully suitable for this. The yarrow ointment can be bought ready-made or made by yourself. A very simple option is to enrich a simple base ointment with yarrow juice. For this purpose, the stems, leaves and, if necessary, roots are crushed in a mortar or mixer. The mass and liquid are placed in a fine sieve to separate the sap from the solid components.
The juice can be applied directly to the wound or added to an ointment. Compresses soaked in it can also be applied or baths taken in one infusion with the medicinal herb. For a bath for wounds, a strong tea infusion is made from leaves, flowers and stems. The amount can be doubled from one to two teaspoons per 150 milliliters to two to six teaspoons. A quantity of one liter is enough for
liver
The bitter substances, tannins and other secondary plant substances are intended to regulate the activity of the liver and gall bladder, to calm the organs and to support their functions. Stress, illnesses and drugs that put a strain on the liver but also digestive disorders should therefore benefit from a tea infusion made from the medicinal plant. The preparation takes place in the same way as an infusion for digestive problems.
Desire to have children
In addition to numerous other substances, the Achillea also contain phytohormones. These are so-called plant hormones. These should be an advantage if you want to have children. Because according to herbal medicine, the phytohormones have a regulating effect on the cycle and should be able to increase fertility. Therefore, for example, special fertility teas containing Achillea can be found on the market.
Pregnancy & breastfeeding
However, yarrow tea should not be consumed during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Because the ingredients of the teas and tinctures should not only have a beneficial effect on fertility, but also promote labor.
Cramps & Menopause
In the case of other typical female complaints during menstruation or menopause, the herbal remedies from the medicinal herb can relieve cramps and have a relaxing effect. This makes Achillea particularly interesting, but not only for women who suffer from PMS, pain and hormone fluctuations or other typical female complaints, for example.
Due to its regulating effect, the medicinal plant can even be used during menopause in the form of teas to treat a create hormonal balance and thereby cause problems like hot flashes, mood swings and restrictions to reduce.
Smoke yarrow
In some cultures the dried Achillea is smoked alone, with other herbs or mixed with tobacco. Smoking is not recommended, however, as the healing and desired effects can be achieved in a much gentler way in other ways.
