Yarrow
© Steven FosterParts Used & Where Grown
This prolific plant grows in Europe, North America, and Asia. A number of species are used as garden ornamentals. The flowering tops of yarrow are used in herbal medicine.
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Amenorrhea | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Yarrow has traditionally been thought to stimulate absent or diminished menses, though it has not been studied clinically. |
Colic | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Yarrow is a gas-relieving herb used in traditional medicine to treat colic. It is generally given by healthcare professionals as teas or decoctions to the infant. |
Common Cold and Sore Throat | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Yarrow is a diaphoretic herb that has been used for relief of sore throats. |
Crohn’s Disease | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Yarrow is an anti-inflammatory herb historically recommended by doctors for people with Crohn’s disease. |
Indigestion, Heartburn, and Low Stomach Acidity | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Yarrow is a digestive stimulant widely used in traditional medicine in North America. |
Inflammation | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Traditional herbal medicine in Europe, China, and India has used yarrow to to treat inflammation in a number of conditions, especially in the intestinal and female reproductive tracts. |
Premenstrual Syndrome | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Based on anecdotal evidence, yarrow tea may be beneficial when the main symptom of PMS is spastic pain. |
Ulcerative Colitis | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Yarrow is an anti-inflammatory and soothing herb that may be effective in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. |
Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)
Traditional herbal medicine has used yarrow in three broad categories.1 First, it was used to help stop minor bleeding and to treat wounds. Second, it was used to treat inflammation in a number of conditions, especially in the intestinal and female reproductive tracts. Third, it was utilized as a mild sedative. Some or all of these historical uses occurred in Europe, China, and India. The ancient Chinese fortune-telling system known as the I Ching first used dried yarrow stems, then later replaced them with coins.2
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.