Yarrow: useful properties and contraindications, therapeutic use and harm

Many herbs have powerful healing effects, but finding a versatile herb with minimal side effects is not easy. The plant known as yarrow is one of the few that fulfills these requirements. 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;
• matrix;
• glucoside;
• borneol.

Benefits of yarrow for the body

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

The herb helps to improve the functioning of the intestines and activates the metabolism. Often infusions are recommended for atherosclerosis or overweight.

For women

For the female half of humanity, medicinal substances of yarrow are very useful in case of heavy periods or in the presence of internal bleeding.Many medical preparations for the treatment of gynecological diseases include pomace of the plant. Varicose veins, which also often torment ladies, are also eliminated by decoctions based on this herb.

For men

The benefits of yarrow for men are 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 to strengthen the cardiovascular system, diseases of which are more common in men.

When Pregnant

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

Important! The herb used to be used as an abortion pill.

What diseases are treated with yarrow?

The plant includes a large list of diseases that respond well to treatment with its use:

• treats diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• used in the postoperative period;
• improves airway function;
• 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, pomace, essential oil, infusions, masks and as a bath mixture.

Fresh juice

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

Yarrow decoction

Treatment of diabetes mellitus, weight loss, stabilization of intestinal microflora - yarrow decoctions are suitable for this. To prepare, you need a tablespoon of chopped plant, pour 150 milliliters of water and bring to a boil. The course of treatment should be prescribed by a doctor, but on average, it is recommended to take 100 grams of decoction, three times a day, for 10 days.

Decoction of flowers

Decoctions of flowers are prepared in the same way. It is necessary to apply inside, to relieve pain during menstruation and stop bleeding.

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

Yarrow infusion

An infusion of herbs is considered one of the best remedies to combat heartburn and to relieve the symptoms of stomach ulcers. The tool soothes the walls and has a good effect on the functioning of the gallbladder. The proportions are identical to the broth, but the preparation takes place in a water bath, without boiling. Cooking is quite laborious, but more useful substances are preserved in this way.

Alcohol tincture

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. Good for stomach cramps, potency and angina.

Ointment for boils

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

Yarrow baths

Yarrow baths are taken for allergies, abscesses or ulcers, and for wound healing. To do this, you need to brew 200 grams of dry grass in a small saucepan of boiling water and, after straining, pour it into the bath. Lie down to soak for 15 minutes. It is not necessary to wash off the remains from the body, however, it is not recommended to stay in the cold after taking a bath.

Tea

Tea with the addition of yarrow is usually used as a prevention of gastrointestinal diseases, especially recommended for the elderly. There is no special recipe, just add a teaspoon of herb to your favorite tea and enjoy tea drinking.

Important! You can drink tea with a plant with the whole family (except for pregnant women at any time).

Yarrow Liquid Extract

Squeeze is almost impossible to obtain at home, but can be easily purchased at the nearest pharmacy. Used diluted (5 drops per glass of water), as an anti-inflammatory and firming agent.

Use 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.

Facial

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

Hair

The scalp is also prone to subcutaneous ulcers and, if worn for a long time, diaper rash can form. Decoctions for washing the head based on dried leaves and flowers of the plant easily eliminate such ailments.

Contraindications and special instructions for use

Despite the extensive range of useful properties of yarrow, in some cases, its use can cause significant harm to he alth.

Important! Concentrated pomace should not be used in its pure form under any circumstances. A high content of essential oil negatively affects the functioning of the body, can cause burns and aggravate the course of the disease.

Grass is completely contraindicated for pregnant women. If an allergic reaction is detected, it is urgent to stop applying or drinking.

Collecting, harvesting and storing grass

To obtain the maximum effect from the herb, it is recommended to properly collect and store the plant. Drying is recommended in the open air, in sunlight. Keep the collection in a dry place, in tightly sealed containers.

Flowers

Inflorescences will be more useful if you cut off only the top 4 centimeters. It is worth noting that you can not use a plant that has grown within the city, not far from the roadway or factories. The harm from such a collection will be much greater.

Grass

The herb is also used in the preparation of infusions, so do not rush to throw out the stems. However, it is recommended to dry and store them separately from the general collection.

Leaves

Leaves are considered the most saturated with useful substances. When drying, it is important to turn them over so that they do not rot. The leaves can also be dried on windowsills, attics and near radiators.

Recommended