|
Herbs & Supplements
Achillea millefolium
Scientific Name: Yarrow
Other Names: Achillea, Bloodwort, Green Arrow, Milfoil, Nosebleed Plant, Staunch Weed, Thousand-Leaf, Wound Wort, Yarroway
Who is this for?
Uses
Even though the use of yarrow has declined in recent years, it contains a number of chemicals with distinctive medicinal effects. When taken by mouth, for example, chemicals called flavonoids in yarrow are known to promote gastrointestinal (GI) secretions--including bile, saliva, and stomach acid. Both appetite and digestion may be improved by increased GI secretions. Flavonoids and other components of yarrow may also relax the smooth muscles in the GI tract, possibly reducing stomach cramps. Muscles in the uterus may also relax, which may relieve menstrual cramps, reduce heavy menstrual bleeding, and regulate menstrual periods. Because additional chemicals in yarrow may be anti-inflammatory, it may also help to alleviate pain. Taking yarrow may slightly reduce high blood pressure due to its mild diuretic (urine producing) effect. It also may promote sweating. Therefore, it has been used to treat fevers. However, more studies are needed to evaluate these all effects.
Topically, yarrow acts as an astringent, which neans that it shrinks and tightens the top layers of skin or mucous membranes, thereby reducing secretions, relieving irritation, and improving tissue firmness. Traditionally, yarrow's astringent effect has been used to lessen bleeding from injuries. More recently, it has been used as an external wash to stop minor bleeding from hemorrhoids and to shrink hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Its slight antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may also help prevent infections resulting from injury to the skin.
|
Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
|
|
Who is this for? 
