Useful properties and contraindications for the use of yarrow

Many herbs have powerful healing effects, but finding a versatile herb with minimal side effects is not so easy. The plant known as yarrow is one of the few that meets these needs. So, what are the beneficial properties and contraindications of yarrow? How to use it correctly and in what doses?

Chemical composition of yarrow

Yarrow has a rich chemical composition and has more than ten types of useful substances:

• essential oil – up to 0.8%;
• chamazulene;
• beta-pinenes;
• formic acid;
• vitamin K;
• carotene;
• ascorbic acid;
• matrixin;
• glucoside;
• borneol.

What are the benefits of yarrow for the body?

The plant also has a variety of medicinal properties. The main ones are antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Yarrow is often used as a remedy to stop bleeding, both internal and external damage to the skin.

The herb helps improve intestinal function and activates metabolism. Infusions are often recommended for atherosclerosis or increased weight.

For women

For the female half of humanity, the medicinal substances of yarrow are very useful for heavy periods or in the presence of internal bleeding. Many medications for the treatment of gynecological diseases include plant extracts. Varicose veins, which also often torments women, can also be eliminated with decoctions based on this herb.

For men

The benefits of yarrow for men lie in three main functions:

• increases potency by stabilizing the nervous system and relieving tension;
• strengthens the body, reducing the risk of colds and infectious diseases;
• helps strengthen the cardiovascular system, diseases of which are more common in men.

During pregnancy

The properties of yarrow are ambiguously manifested during gestation. When applied externally, the healing effects still have a positive effect.But pregnant women are strictly prohibited from using it internally. This is due to the production of the hormone estrogen, which weakens the muscles of the uterus and increases the risk of miscarriage.

Important! Previously, the herb was used as an abortion remedy.

What diseases are treated with yarrow?

The plant includes a large list of diseases that respond well to treatment when used:

• treats diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• used in the postoperative period;
• improves the functioning of the respiratory tract;
• eliminates allergies and skin diseases;
• used for disorders of the nervous system.

Folk recipes

Yarrow is especially popular in folk medicine. Almost all types of products based on it are used: ointments, decoctions, squeezes, essential oils, infusions, masks and as a bath mixture.

Fresh Juice

Fresh juice of common yarrow is not intended for internal use in its pure form. It is an optimal solution for treating open wounds, applying light compresses, and eliminating the symptoms of periodontal disease. It is advisable to prepare the juice before use by crushing fresh leaves into a pulp and passing the resulting mixture through cheesecloth.

Yarrow decoction

Treating diabetes, losing excess weight, stabilizing intestinal microflora - yarrow decoctions are suitable for this. To prepare, you need to pour a tablespoon of the crushed plant into 150 milliliters of water and bring to a boil. The course of treatment must be prescribed by a doctor, but on average, it is recommended to take 100 grams of decoction, three times a day, for 10 days.

Flower decoction

Flower decoctions are prepared in the same way. It must be taken orally to relieve pain during menstruation and stop bleeding.

Important! People with thick blood are not recommended to use such remedies to avoid worsening the condition.

Yarrow infusion

An infusion of the herb is considered one of the optimal remedies for combating heartburn and relieving the symptoms of stomach ulcers. The product soothes the walls and has a good effect on the functioning of the gallbladder. The proportions are identical to the decoction, but the preparation takes place in a water bath, without boiling. The preparation is quite labor-intensive, but this way more nutrients are preserved.

Alcohol tincture

It is prepared on the basis of dry grass mixed with flowers (2 tablespoons) and a glass of vodka. The tincture is aged for a week and applied 20 grams three times a day before meals. It helps well with stomach cramps, to increase potency and with angina pectoris.

Ointment for boils

The plant is also often used for abscesses, boils and abscesses. Preparing the ointment at home does not take much time. It is enough to mix 20 grams of herb with a glass of hot water, bring to a homogeneous state and combine with 20 grams of Vaseline. It is recommended to apply a thin layer for half an hour, then remove the residue with a soft handkerchief.

Baths with yarrow

Baths with yarrow are taken for allergies, the presence of ulcers or ulcers, and for wound healing. To do this, you need to brew 200 grams of dry herb in a small saucepan of boiling water and, after straining, pour it into the bath. Lie down to soak for 15 minutes. There is no need to wash off the residue from the body, but after taking a bath it is not recommended to be in the cold.

Tea

Tea with the addition of yarrow is usually consumed as a preventive measure for gastrointestinal diseases, and is especially recommended for older people.There is no special recipe, just add a teaspoon of herb to your favorite tea and enjoy your tea.

Important! The whole family can drink tea with the plant (except for pregnant women at any stage).

Yarrow liquid extract

It is almost impossible to obtain the squeeze at home, but you can easily purchase it at your nearest pharmacy. Used diluted (5 drops per glass of water) as an anti-inflammatory and strengthening agent.

Application in cosmetology

The use of yarrow is also popular in cosmetology. Especially often, plant-based products are used to eliminate skin diseases of the face and scalp.

For face

Preparations and lotions with yarrow are especially suitable for patients with acne and allergic rashes. To do this, it is recommended to spot treat the inflamed areas once a day.

For hair

The scalp is also susceptible to the appearance of subcutaneous ulcers and, with prolonged wearing of a headdress, diaper rash can form. Decoctions for washing hair based on dried leaves and flowers of the plant easily eliminate such ailments.

Contraindications and special instructions for use

Despite the wide range of beneficial properties of yarrow, in some cases its use can cause significant harm to health.

Important! Under no circumstances should concentrated pomace be used in its pure form. A high content of essential oil negatively affects the functioning of the body, can cause burns and aggravate the course of the disease.

The herb is completely contraindicated for pregnant women. If an allergic reaction is detected, you must immediately stop applying or drinking.

Collection, preparation and storage of grass

To get the maximum effect from the herb, it is recommended to properly harvest and store the plant. It is recommended to dry outdoors in sunlight. The collection should be stored in a dry place, in tightly sealed containers.

Flowers

The inflorescences will be more beneficial if you cut off only the top 4 centimeters. It is worth noting that you cannot consume a plant that has grown within the city, near the roadway or factories. The harm from such a collection will be much greater.

Grass

The herb is also used when preparing infusions, so do not rush to throw away the stems. However, it is recommended to dry and store them separately from the general collection.

Leaves

The leaves are considered the most saturated with beneficial substances. When drying, it is important to turn them over so as not to dry them. Leaves can also be dried on window sills, attics and near radiators.