Useful properties and contraindications to the use of yarrow
Many herbs have powerful medicinal effects, but it is not easy to find a versatile plant with few side effects. The plant, known as yarrow, is one of the few that meet these demands. So, what are the beneficial properties and contraindications of yarrow? How to use it correctly and in what doses?
Yarrow chemical composition
Yarrow has a rich chemical composition and has more than ten names of useful substances:
- essential oil - up to 0.8%;
- hamazulene;
- beta pinene;
- formic acid;
- vitamin K;
- carotene;
- vitamin C;
- matricin;
- glucoside;
- borneol.
Why is yarrow useful for the body
Also, the plant has a variety of medicinal properties. The main ones are antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Yarrow is often used as a bleeding agent, both internally and externally.
The herb helps to establish bowel function and activates metabolism. Often, infusions are 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 medicines for the treatment of gynecological diseases include plant pomace. Varicose veins, which also often torments women, is also eliminated with decoctions based on this herb.
For men
The benefits of yarrow for men have 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, the diseases of which are more often manifested in men.
During pregnancy
The properties of yarrow are ambiguous when bearing a fetus. When applied externally, the healing effects continue to 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 in the uterus and increases the risk of miscarriage.
Important! In the past, herb was used as an abortion agent.
What diseases are treated with yarrow?
The plant includes a large list of diseases that respond well to treatment when applied:
- 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, pomace, essential oil, infusions, masks and as a mixture for taking baths.
Fresh Juice
Fresh yarrow juice is not intended to be taken orally in its pure form. It serves as an optimal solution for the treatment of 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 gruel and passing the resulting mixture through cheesecloth.
Yarrow decoction
Treatment of diabetes mellitus, getting rid of excess weight, stabilizing the intestinal microflora - yarrow decoctions are suitable for this. For cooking, you need a tablespoon of the crushed 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 broth, three times a day, for 10 days.
Decoction of flowers
Decoctions of flowers are prepared in an identical way. It must be used internally to relieve pain during menstruation and stop bleeding.
Important! People with thick blood are not recommended to use such remedies in order to avoid worsening of the condition.
Infusion of yarrow
Infusion of the herb is considered one of the best remedies for heartburn and for relieving symptoms of stomach ulcers. The tool soothes the walls and has a good effect on the work of the gallbladder. The proportions are identical to the broth, but cooking takes place in a water bath, without boiling. Cooking is quite laborious, but more nutrients are saved this way.
Alcohol tincture
It is prepared on the basis of dry herbs mixed with flowers (2 tablespoons) and a glass of vodka. The tincture is aged for a week and is applied 20 grams three times a day before meals. Well helps with stomach cramps, to increase potency and angina pectoris.
Ointment for boils
Also, the plant is often used for boils, boils and abscesses. Making an ointment at home does not take long. 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 remnants with a soft cloth.
Yarrow baths
Baths with yarrow are taken for allergies, abscesses or ulcers, and for wound healing. This will require 200 grams of dry grass, boil boiling water in a small saucepan and, after filtering, pour into the bath. Lie down to soak for 15 minutes. It is not necessary to wash off the remains from the body, but it is not recommended to stay in the cold after taking a bath.
Tea
It is customary to use tea with the addition of yarrow as a prophylaxis for gastrointestinal diseases, especially for the elderly. There is no special recipe, just add a teaspoon of the 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 of the dates).
Yarrow Liquid Extract
It is almost impossible to get pomace at home, but you can easily get it at your nearest pharmacy. It is 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
Especially well preparations and lotions with yarrow are suitable for patients with acne and allergic rashes. To do this, it is recommended to pinpoint the inflamed areas once a day.
For hair
The scalp is also prone to the appearance of subcutaneous ulcers and, with prolonged wearing of a headdress, diaper rash can form. Decoctions for shampooing 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 can concentrated pomace be used in its pure form. The high content of essential oil negatively affects the functioning of the body, can cause burns and aggravate the course of the disease.
For pregnant women, the herb is completely contraindicated. If an allergic reaction is detected, an urgent need to stop applying or drinking.
Collection, harvesting and storage of grass
To get the most out of the herb, it is recommended that you harvest and store the plant properly. It is recommended to dry outdoors, in direct sunlight. You need to store the collection in a dry place, in tightly sealed containers.
Flowers
The inflorescences are more beneficial if only the top 4 centimeters are cut. It should be noted that you cannot 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 when preparing 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
The leaves are considered the most saturated nutrients. When drying, it is important to turn them over so that they do not get locked. Leaves can also be dried on windowsills, attics and near radiators.
