Yarrow has been a superstar in the world of herbal medicine for centuries, and for good reason! This hardy plant is packed with essential oils and aromatic compounds that natural health enthusiasts swear by. The best part? You can easily harness the power of yarrow right at home.
Natural Ways to Use Yarrow
Different parts of the yarrow plant can be used in a variety of ways depending on what you need. Some of the most popular methods include:
- Herbal teas
- Tinctures
- Soothing bath soaks
Brewing Yarrow Tea
A warm cup of yarrow tea is a classic remedy for digestive issues like bloating, gas, or a general lack of appetite. But it’s also a legendary “women’s herb”—in fact, it’s often called “maiden’s herb” because it’s so effective at soothing menstrual cramps and helping to regulate cycles.
To make the tea, you’ll want to use dried flowers. Simply pour boiling water over about one teaspoon of the blossoms. Let it steep for about 15 minutes, then strain out the flowers. For the best results, sip the tea slowly while it’s still warm. You can enjoy a few cups a day as needed.
Making a Yarrow Tincture
If you’re looking for something a bit more concentrated, a tincture is a great option. It works for the same health issues as the tea but is much more shelf-stable.
To whip up your own, mix about 1.5 to 1.7 ounces (45-50 grams) of chopped yarrow herb with about 8.5 ounces (250 ml) of 70% proof alcohol (like vodka). Let the mixture sit in a quiet spot for about a week, then strain out all the plant material.
When you’re ready to use it, just add about 20 drops to a glass of water or tea. Because of the alcohol content, this remedy is strictly for adults!
Yarrow as a Bath Soak
Yarrow isn’t just for drinking—it’s also a fantastic aromatic addition to your bath. A full soak or a sitz bath with yarrow can be incredibly comforting for menstrual cramps or digestive discomfort.
For a bath, you can use either fresh or dried plant parts. Steep about 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of yarrow in two liters of hot water for 20 minutes. Strain out the herbs and pour the liquid right into your bathwater. Trust me, your body will thank you!
A Quick Note on Allergies
While yarrow is edible and generally safe, you should skip it if you have a known allergy to the Asteraceae (daisy) family. Since yarrow is a member of that family, it could trigger a reaction in sensitive individuals.
