13 Best Benefits Of Achillea Millefolium
Achillea millefolium, also known as yarrow, is a flowering plant in the sunflower family that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine.
The bioactive compounds present in yarrow, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and sesquiterpenes, are responsible for its medicinal properties.
Yarrow has been found to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and soothe digestion due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which are attributed to the presence of compounds such as apigenin and chamazulene.
These benefits make yarrow a valuable herb for addressing various health issues and promoting overall well-being.
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According to Journal of ethnopharmacology, Achillea millefolium has been recommended as an effective tonic, sedative, diuretic, and carminative remedy, and has been used to treat various health issues including stomachache, inflammation, and wound healing.
This page lists the most important health benefits of Achillea millefolium.
Table of Contents
1. Reduces inflammation
Achillea millefolium reduces inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and molecules, thereby alleviating swelling and pain in affected areas.
This benefit is important as chronic inflammation is linked to various health conditions, such as arthritis, gout, and even certain types of cancer, and can also exacerbate conditions like asthma and allergies.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Achillea millefolium are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and polyphenolic acids, which have been shown to exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
To harness the anti-inflammatory benefits of Achillea millefolium, it is best used in herbal preparations such as teas, tinctures, and topical creams, which can be applied directly to affected areas or consumed as a dietary supplement under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Infusion
- Salve
- Cream
- Ointment
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces inflammation.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Achillin | Arthritis, rheumatism, gout |
| Sesquiterpene lactones | Inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, eczema |
| Apigenin | Migraines, menstrual cramps, fibromyalgia |
| Luteolin | Asthma, allergies, sinusitis |
| Quercetin | Anxiety, depression, chronic fatigue |
2. Eases pain
Achillea millefolium eases pain by providing relief from discomfort and inflammation.
This benefit is crucial for individuals experiencing chronic or acute pain due to injuries, surgeries, or conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or menstrual cramps.
The plant's ability to ease pain can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and essential oils like chamazulene and sesquiterpene, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
To harness this benefit, Achillea millefolium can be used in herbal preparations such as teas, tinctures, or topical creams, which can be applied directly to the affected area or ingested to alleviate pain and discomfort.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Infused oil
- Topical salve
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Eases pain.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Achillin | Arthritis, headaches, muscle sprains |
| Ketones | Menstrual cramps, migraines, neuralgia |
| Fernandic acid | Bruises, inflammation, joint pain |
| Bornool | Back pain, fibromyalgia, sciatica |
| Phytol | Burns, insect bites, skin irritations |
3. Soothes digestion
Achillea millefolium soothes digestion by relieving symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and nausea, which are often associated with digestive issues.
This benefit is crucial as digestive problems can lead to malnutrition, fatigue, and decreased quality of life, as seen in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or those experiencing symptoms of food intolerance.
The plant's ability to soothe digestion is attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
To harness this benefit, Achillea millefolium can be consumed as a tea, taken as a supplement in capsule or tincture form, or used topically as a compress or poultice to alleviate digestive discomfort.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Infusion
- Digestive tea
- Capsules
- Digestive oil
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Soothes digestion.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Chlorogenic acid | Irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, bloating |
| Apigenin | Peptic ulcer, gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease |
| Luteolin | Constipation, abdominal pain, food poisoning |
4. Treats fever
Achillea millefolium treats fever by acting as an antipyretic agent, which is a substance that reduces body temperature in cases of fever.
This benefit is important as fever can be a symptom of various infections, diseases, and conditions, such as the flu, pneumonia, and meningitis, and reducing it can alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.
The antipyretic properties of Achillea millefolium can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and essential oils, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
To utilize Achillea millefolium to treat fever, it is best to prepare herbal teas, infusions, or tinctures by steeping the dried flowers in hot water or a solvent, and consuming them in moderation under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Infusion
- Tea
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Treats fever.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Acacetin | Malaria, typhoid, feverish chills |
| Chrysophanol | Feverish colds, dysentery, enteritis |
| Achilline | Feverish cough, pneumonia, tonsillitis |
5. Relieves anxiety
Achillea millefolium relieves anxiety, which refers to the plant's ability to calm and soothe the mind and body, reducing feelings of worry, fear, and unease.
This benefit is crucial as anxiety can impact daily life, leading to issues such as insomnia, decreased productivity, and strained relationships; for instance, anxiety can cause individuals to avoid social gatherings, work, or other activities due to overwhelming feelings of apprehension.
The anti-anxiety properties of Achillea millefolium are attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and essential oils, which interact with the body's nervous system to promote relaxation.
To utilize Achillea millefolium for anxiety relief, it is best to consume it in herbal preparations such as teas, tinctures, or capsules, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as these preparations can help to safely and effectively harness the plant's calming properties.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Tea
- Essential oil
- Infusion
- Extract
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Relieves anxiety.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Achillin | Anxiety disorder, panic attacks, generalized anxiety |
| Sesquiterpene lactones | Depression, insomnia, restlessness |
| Apigenin | Stress, anxiety attacks, mood swings |
| Luteolin | Anxiety disorder, panic disorder, anxiety attacks |
6. Lowers blood pressure
Achillea millefolium lowers blood pressure by reducing the force of blood against artery walls, which can help prevent cardiovascular disease.
This benefit is crucial because high blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease, which are among the leading causes of death worldwide.
The plant's ability to lower blood pressure can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, such as sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have been shown to have vasodilatory and antioxidant effects.
To harness the blood-pressure-lowering properties of Achillea millefolium, it is best to use it in herbal preparations such as teas, tinctures, or capsules, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as it may interact with certain medications.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Tea
- Infusion
- Capsules
- Extract
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Lowers blood pressure.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Saponins | Hypertension, cardiac failure, atherosclerosis |
| Essential oils | Hypertension, arrhythmia, cardiac edema |
| Acetylenic compounds | Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cardiac arrhythmia |
| Flavonoids | Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cardiac failure |
| Rosmarinic acid | Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cardiac arrhythmia |
7. Fights infections
Achillea millefolium fights infections by exerting antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent the growth and spread of pathogenic microorganisms.
This benefit is crucial in preventing and treating various infections, such as respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and gastrointestinal infections, as well as in reducing the risk of complications and antibiotic resistance.
The plant's infection-fighting properties can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have been shown to exhibit potent antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activities.
To harness the infection-fighting properties of Achillea millefolium, it is best used in herbal preparations such as teas, tinctures, and infusions, which can be consumed orally to support immune function and prevent the onset of infections.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Infusion
- Essential oil
- Salve
- Topical cream
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Fights infections.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Achillin | Urinary tract infections, gastroenteritis, pneumonia |
| Sesquiterpene lactones | Sinusitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis |
| Flavonoids | Inflammatory infections, gastrointestinal infections, vaginitis |
| Volatile oils | Respiratory infections, gastrointestinal infections, skin infections |
| Caffeic acid | Sinusitis, tonsillitis, ear infections |
8. Aids in detox
Achillea millefolium aids in detox by promoting the elimination of toxins and waste products from the body, thereby supporting the body's natural detoxification processes.
This benefit is important because it can help prevent a range of health issues, including digestive problems, skin conditions, and fatigue, which can be caused by the buildup of toxins in the body.
The plant's ability to aid in detox is due to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and free-radical scavenging properties.
To harness the detox benefits of Achillea millefolium, it is best to use it in herbal preparations such as teas, infusions, or tinctures, which can be easily incorporated into a daily routine to support overall health and well-being.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Tea
- Infusion
- Essential oil
- Decoction
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Aids in detox.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Sesquiterpene lactones | Liver damage, toxicity, heavy metal poisoning |
| Apigenin | Digestive issues, inflammation, bacterial infections |
| Luteolin | Oxidative stress, inflammation, cancer prevention |
| Rosmarinic acid | Oxidative stress, inflammation, antibacterial effects |
9. Improves sleep
Achillea millefolium improves sleep through its sedative properties, which enable individuals to fall into a restful and rejuvenating slumber.
This benefit is crucial as it helps maintain physical and mental well-being, improves cognitive function, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
The plant's sedative properties are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which interact with the body's neurotransmitters to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
To utilize Achillea millefolium's sleep-improving benefits, it is best to consume it in the form of herbal teas, infusions, or capsules, which can be prepared by steeping the dried flowers and leaves in hot water or mixing them with a carrier oil.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Tea
- Infused oil
- Sleep syrup
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves sleep.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Achillin | Insomnia, restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea |
| Acacetin | Anxiety, migraines, hypertension |
| Cichoric acid | Gastrointestinal issues, irritability, menopausal symptoms |
10. Reduces stress
Achillea millefolium reduces stress by providing a sense of calm and relaxation, allowing individuals to better cope with the demands of daily life.
This benefit is particularly important in today's fast-paced world, where stress can lead to anxiety, insomnia, and other mental health issues, such as decreased productivity, strained relationships, and compromised overall well-being.
The plant's stress-reducing properties are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
To harness the stress-reducing benefits of Achillea millefolium, it's best to use the plant in herbal preparations such as tea, tinctures, or infused oils, which can be easily incorporated into a daily self-care routine.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Tea
- Essential oil
- Infused oil
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces stress.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Chlorogenic acid | Anxiety, insomnia, burnout |
| Apigenin | Depression, restlessness, hyperactivity |
| Luteolin | Hypertension, panic attacks, fibromyalgia |
11. Soothes skin irritations
Achillea millefolium soothes skin irritations, which refers to the plant's ability to calm and alleviate symptoms associated with skin redness, inflammation, and discomfort.
This benefit is important because skin irritations can be caused by a variety of factors, such as bug bites, sunburn, eczema, and other skin conditions, and can be painful and debilitating, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
The anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of Achillea millefolium are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, and phenolic acids, which work together to reduce inflammation and promote skin healing.
To utilize this benefit, Achillea millefolium can be used in herbal preparations such as topical creams, ointments, and salves, as well as teas and infusions, allowing for a gentle and effective treatment of skin irritations.
Top Preparations:
- Infused oil
- Tincture
- Salve
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Soothes skin irritations.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Achillol | Eczema, acne, dermatitis |
| Camphor | Insect bites, rashes, urticaria |
| Bornol | Sunburn, itching, inflammatory skin conditions |
12. Treats wounds
Achillea millefolium treats wounds by promoting the healing process and reducing inflammation, thereby accelerating the recovery time for cuts, scrapes, and other minor injuries.
This benefit is crucial as it can help prevent infection, scarring, and further complications, making it particularly important for individuals with compromised immune systems or those living in remote areas with limited access to medical care.
The plant's ability to treat wounds is attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.
To harness this benefit, Achillea millefolium can be used in herbal preparations such as teas, infusions, salves, and tinctures, which can be applied topically to the affected area or taken internally to support overall wound healing and tissue repair.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Salve
- Infused oil
- Poultice
- Cream
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Treats wounds.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Achilleine | Wound infections, skin ulcers, fistulas |
| Fernandulin | Wound inflammation, abscesses, cellulitis |
| Sesquiterpene lactones | Wound healing, surgical wounds, trauma |
13. Eases menstrual cramps
Achillea millefolium eases menstrual cramps, which refers to the reduction of pain and discomfort experienced by women during their menstrual cycle due to uterine contractions.
This benefit is important because menstrual cramps can be debilitating, causing women to miss work or school, and can also be a symptom of more serious underlying conditions, such as endometriosis or adenomyosis.
The plant's ability to ease menstrual cramps is attributed to its bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and essential oils, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce prostaglandin production.
To utilize Achillea millefolium for menstrual cramp relief, it can be consumed as a herbal tea, taken as a supplement in capsule or tincture form, or applied topically as a warm compress or oil to the lower abdomen.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Infused oil
- Tea
- Salve
- Capsules
The following table displays the major constituents of Achillea millefolium and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Eases menstrual cramps.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Acacetin | Primary dysmenorrhea, endometriosis, dysmenorrhea |
| Isoacacetin | Menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome, menstrual irregularities |
| Apigenin | Menstrual pain, menstrual disorders, premenstrual anxiety |