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Yarrow tea made from yarrow (Achillea Millefolium) has been used in folk medicine for centuries. Discover some of the many benefits so you can harness its magic and medicine.
The first time I picked a bouquet of feathery yarrow leaves and starry flowers, it was an enchanting experience. Since then, yarrow (Achillea millefolium ) has been a constant friend and teacher. Through striving to know this plant well, I have delved into ancestral wisdom, botany, plant ecology, history, and many other subjects. The mystery and complexity of one plant are enough to spend a lifetime exploring.
As an adult, I spend my time cultivating closer relationships with our plant allies. For example, it was during my research into yarrow’s uses as a medicinal herb that I discovered that not only does this plant have so many wondrous medicinal uses—which have been used by many civilizations throughout history—but it also possesses magical properties.
I’m sure I’m not the only herbalist to list yarrow as one of the indispensable herbs in their apothecary. Chances are good that most will name Yarrow.
More About Yarrow
Yarrow is an herb of the sun, its pretty white flowers lasting throughout the summer and attracting beneficial insects, ladybirds, hoverflies, and butterflies. Its mass of white blooms adds beauty to any garden; it helps improve soil quality and enrich the soil around it. Yarrow is a member of the Asteraceae daisy family. It is easy to grow in a sunny spot and will thrive in any flower bed or wildlife garden.
It is also a miraculous healer. Its common names—Bloodwort, Woundwort, Carpenter’s Weed, and Plumajillo—reveal its deep association with blood, wounds, and healing. Even its Latin name, Achillea, refers to its alliance with warriors and its ability to heal them during battle.
As a healing herb, it has applications both internal and external. When used externally for wounds, she slows bleeding, pulls the edges of a wound together, and speeds healing. Internally, she has a balancing effect on fluids throughout the body and can help resolve infections of all kinds.
Internally, I like to take this amazing healing herb as a tea, but should not be consumed regularly as a tonic. Instead, it is best used when you are facing the first signs of illness, to resolve fever (along with elderflower), internal injury, after surgery or tooth extraction, or to treat/prevent uterine congestion. It is for short-term use only (6 weeks max, then at least 2 weeks off).
Yarrow can also be used in many magical workings to help us connect with the unseen world. Yarrow tea is often drunk during rituals and ceremonies where protection, bravery, or healing are needed. Its ability to strengthen our connection with ancestors makes it an ally when attempting divination and communication with ethereal beings.
How To Make Yarrow Tea
Most people drink yarrow tea not for its taste but for the medicinal benefits it provides. It has a bitter taste with an earthy undertone, and it is almost devoid of sweetness. I like to sweeten my yarrow tea with a bit of honey and lemon.
Tip: If you can’t find yarrow locally, you can purchase it from Mountain Rose Herbs. My favorite place to buy high-quality, organic dried herbs and herbal products.
Step One
Put one tablespoon of fresh or 1 -2 tsp. of dried yarrow blossom and leaves in a pot. Pour one cup of boiling water over them.
Step Two
Let this yarrow tea steep for 7-10 minutes or longer to extract all the magical and medicinal properties of yarrow. You want to make sure you steep it long enough to draw out as much flavor as you can but not too much that the tea becomes increasingly bitter the longer you over steep it. I don’t recommend steeping longer than 15 minutes.
Tip: Yarrow tea needs to be covered when brewing to insure warmth, a full extraction and that the essential oils of the herbs (which are very beneficial) stay in your cup.
Step Three
Strain the blossoms and drink pure warm tea slowly, enjoying every sip. Add honey to sweeten if desired or a slice of lemon.
Contraindications
Not considered safe for use during pregnancy. It should be used carefully or avoided for coagulation disorders.
Disclaimer: outdoorapothecary.com is informational in nature and is not to be regarded as a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. While we strive to be 100% accurate, it is solely up to the reader to ensure proper plant identification.
Some wild plants are poisonous or can have serious adverse health effects. We are not health professionals, medical doctors, nor are we nutritionists. It is up to the reader to verify nutritional information and health benefits with qualified professionals for all edible plants listed in this website. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always seek the guidance of your qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.
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Hey! Budding herbalist here. I am wondering if there’s a specific reason why you put yarrow leaves and flowers in the tea? I was interested in yarrow tea for the balancing effect on women’s menstrual health, so I’m curious if the tea would be more effective with flowers and leaves. I loved the different aspects you shared about yarrow, seems like such a powerful plant!
I’ve been suffering with tremendous toothache for four days as I wait miserably for a dental appointment. What an amazing surprise to run across your article! I just happen to have yarrow in my backyard and am about to make a cup of tea. Who knew?
Thanks so much,
Julie
Julie,
Ugh, there’s nothing worse than a toothache. I hope the yarrow provides some relief!