Yarrow Tea

The ancient warrior’s herb for fever, digestion, and wounds

Yarrow tea, made from the flowering tops of the Achillea millefolium plant, is one of the oldest and most versatile medicinal herbs in human history. Named after the Greek hero Achilles, who supposedly used it to staunch the bleeding of his soldiers on the battlefields of Troy, yarrow has been valued for thousands of years across Europe, Asia, and North America. Its feathery, fern-like leaves and flat-topped clusters of white or pink flowers contain a remarkable array of bioactive compounds. Yarrow is perhaps best known as a diaphoretic – an herb that induces sweating to reduce fever – but its talents extend far beyond. It is also anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, astringent, digestive, and a wound healer. Yarrow tea has a distinctive bitter, aromatic flavour that reflects its potency. For those suffering from fevers, colds, digestive complaints, or menstrual cramps, yarrow is a powerful and reliable remedy.

If you’d like to try the herbal teas mentioned in this article for yourself, we’ve curated a selection of high-quality, tested sources below. Every product we recommend has been chosen for purity and potency, or visit our online Herbal Tea Shop for even more choice.

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Herbal Teas A-Z List

What yarrow tea is and how it works

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae (daisy) family, native to temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems around the world. The name Achillea comes from the Greek hero Achilles, who, according to legend, used yarrow to treat the wounds of his soldiers. Millefolium means “thousand-leaved,” referring to the plant’s finely dissected, feathery foliage. Indigenous peoples of North America also used yarrow extensively for fevers, colds, wounds, and digestive issues .

The primary active compounds in yarrow include volatile oils (including proazulene, which gives the distilled oil a deep blue colour), sesquiterpene lactones (such as achillicin), flavonoids (including quercetin and rutin), alkaloids (including achilleine), tannins, and bitter principles . These compounds work through several mechanisms: diaphoretic action (inducing sweating to lower fever and eliminate toxins), anti-inflammatory effects (reducing swelling and pain throughout the body), antispasmodic properties (relaxing smooth muscle in the digestive tract and uterus) , astringent effects (tightening and toning tissues, which helps stop minor bleeding), bitter tonic action (stimulating digestive secretions), antimicrobial activity (fighting bacteria and other pathogens), and mild analgesic properties (relieving pain). When prepared as a tea, these compounds are extracted into the water, providing a potent remedy for multiple conditions .

Key health benefits of yarrow tea

Fever and cold relief is one of the most well-known uses of yarrow tea. As a diaphoretic, yarrow helps the body sweat, which naturally lowers body temperature and helps “break” a fever. It is particularly effective when taken at the onset of a cold or flu, especially when you feel chilled and achy. Yarrow is often combined with elderflower and peppermint in classic fever formulas .

Digestive support is another major benefit. The bitter compounds in yarrow stimulate the production of digestive juices, including stomach acid and bile, making it useful for sluggish digestion, bloating, and a feeling of fullness after meals—especially fatty ones. Yarrow also has antispasmodic properties that can help relieve cramping and gas. It is traditionally used for indigestion, loss of appetite, and mild gastrointestinal discomfort .

Period pain/Menstrual cramp relief is a traditional use of yarrow tea. Its antispasmodic properties help relax the smooth muscle of the uterus, reducing the intensity of menstrual cramps. Some research suggests that yarrow may be effective for easing menstrual pain . It may also help regulate menstrual flow.

Wound healing and bleeding is the use that gave yarrow its name. Applied topically, yarrow tea or a compress soaked in yarrow tea can help stop minor bleeding, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of cuts, scrapes, and bruises. The astringent tannins help constrict blood vessels and tighten tissues . (For serious wounds, seek medical attention.)

Anti-inflammatory support helps reduce systemic inflammation. Yarrow’s volatile oils and flavonoids have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, making it useful for conditions involving inflammation, including arthritis and skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis .

Circulatory support is a lesser-known benefit. Yarrow helps improve blood circulation and has been used traditionally for varicose veins and haemorrhoids. It can be taken internally as a tea or applied externally as a compress .

Urinary tract support is another traditional use. Yarrow’s diuretic and antimicrobial properties may help with mild urinary tract discomfort and bladder infections .

If you want to add Yarrow to your home Medical Cabinet, source it here: Yarrow

How to prepare yarrow tea

Yarrow tea can be prepared from dried or fresh flowering tops. From dried herb: Use one to two teaspoons of dried yarrow flowers and leaves per cup of water. Pour freshly boiled water over the herb and steep for 10–15 minutes. Longer steeping produces a stronger, more medicinal infusion . From fresh herb: Use a small handful of fresh yarrow flowering tops per cup. Steep for 10–15 minutes. Strain well: Strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer or tea infuser to remove the plant material before drinking. Flavour: Yarrow tea has a distinctive, bitter, slightly sweet, and aromatic flavour with notes of chamomile and a hint of spice. The bitterness is part of its therapeutic action as a digestive bitter. Blending: Yarrow blends well with other herbs. Classic combinations include yarrow with elderflower and peppermint for fever; yarrow with chamomile and lemon balm for digestion; and yarrow with ginger for menstrual cramps. Sweetening: Honey can help balance the bitterness.

How to use yarrow tea safely

Yarrow tea is generally safe for most people when used short-term. However, several precautions apply.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Yarrow should be avoided during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions. It has a long history of use for menstrual complaints and should not be used during pregnancy . Breastfeeding women should also avoid yarrow due to limited safety data.

Allergies: Yarrow is in the Asteraceae (daisy) family, which includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and echinacea. Individuals with known allergies to these plants may experience allergic reactions to yarrow, including skin rash or respiratory symptoms .

Blood thinners: Yarrow may interact with blood-thinning medications such as warfarin (Coumadin) and aspirin. It may increase the risk of bleeding . Consult your healthcare provider before use.

Photosensitivity: Some people may experience increased sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity) when using yarrow, particularly with topical application. Avoid excessive sun exposure after handling the fresh plant .

Stomach sensitivity: The bitter compounds in yarrow may cause mild digestive upset in some individuals, particularly in large amounts. Start with a smaller amount to assess tolerance.

Long-term use: Yarrow is intended for short-term use (one to two weeks). Not enough studies have been done to determine its safety for long-term use .

Children: Yarrow tea should be used with caution in children and only in small amounts. Consult a healthcare provider.

Recommended dosage

For acute conditions such as fever, colds, or digestive upset, one to two cups of yarrow tea daily is typical . For fever, drink the tea warm and then bundle up to encourage sweating. Do not exceed two cups per day. Use for short periods only – typically three to seven days.

Limitations of yarrow tea

Yarrow tea is not a substitute for medical treatment, particularly for serious infections, high fevers, or severe wounds. Its effects are moderate and work best as part of a broader approach that includes rest, hydration, and appropriate medical care when needed. Claims that yarrow “cures” infections or serious diseases are unsupported; it is best understood as a supportive tool for symptom relief.

FAQ

Is yarrow tea good for fever?
Yes. Yarrow is a classic diaphoretic herb that induces sweating, which helps lower body temperature and “break” a fever. It is most effective at the onset of a cold or flu.

Can yarrow tea help with period pains/menstrual cramps?
Yes. Yarrow has antispasmodic properties that help relax the smooth muscle of the uterus, reducing the intensity of menstrual cramps. Some research supports this traditional use .

What does yarrow tea taste like?
Yarrow tea has a distinctive, bitter, slightly sweet, and aromatic flavour with notes of chamomile. The bitterness is part of its therapeutic action as a digestive bitter. Honey can help balance the flavour.

Is yarrow tea safe during pregnancy?
No. Yarrow should be avoided during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions .

Can I use yarrow tea on wounds?
Yes. Cooled yarrow tea can be used as a compress or wash for minor cuts, scrapes, and bruises. Its astringent and antimicrobial properties help stop bleeding and promote healing. For serious wounds, seek medical attention.

Conclusion

Yarrow tea is a powerful, ancient remedy for fevers, colds, digestive complaints, and menstrual cramps. Its diaphoretic action helps break fevers by inducing sweating. Its bitter compounds stimulate digestion and relieve bloating. Its antispasmodic properties ease menstrual cramps and digestive discomfort. Its astringent and antimicrobial effects make it useful for minor wounds. The bitter, aromatic flavour reflects its potency. Used appropriately and with respect for its contraindications (pregnancy, allergies, blood thinners), yarrow tea is a valuable addition to the home medicine cabinet.

Recommended Products

If you’d like to try the herbal teas mentioned in this article for yourself, we’ve curated a selection of high-quality, tested sources below. Every product we recommend has been chosen for purity and potency, or visit our online Herbal Tea Shop for even more choice.

Yarrow tea (loose leaf): https://amzn.to/48CGBOJ
Elderflower tea (loose leaf): https://amzn.to/4cb3I5h (for blending)
Peppermint tea (loose leaf): https://amzn.to/4lIQSyi (for blending)
Chamomile tea (loose leaf): https://amzn.to/3Pv6zgo (for blending)
Manuka Honey: https://amzn.to/47p7i9g
High-quality Garlic press: https://amzn.to/4sFBsxD
Tea infuser: https://amzn.to/4lAToGE
Glass teapot: https://amzn.to/4snGsGY
Storage boxes: https://amzn.to/47UQgQf
Assortment Box: https://amzn.to/3NFO9ZJ

Visit our online Herbal Tea Shop for more choice!

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Further Reading

For a full evidence-based overview of herbal tea benefits, safety, and quality considerations, read our complete guide to Herbal Tea Benefits

1] For more on fever relief, see:
Herbal Teas for the Relief of Fever
2] For digestive support, see:
Herbal Teas to Aid Digestion
3] For menstrual cramp relief, see:
Can Herbal Tea Help with Period Cramps?
4] For safety guidance on herbal teas, see:
Are Herbal Teas Safe?
5] For potential interactions with medications, see:
Herbal Tea and Medication

Visit our bookshop to check out the ‘culturally grounded, Otherworldly narratives’ by Owen Jones.

References

1] EBSCO Health Library – Yarrow
Provides evidence-based information on yarrow safety and research, including its use for menstrual cramps and multiple sclerosis.
2] Metagenics Health Notes – Yarrow
Provides dosage recommendations for yarrow tea and information on its active constituents and proposed mechanisms of action.
3] Dr. Christopher Hobbs – Yarrow
Provides comprehensive information on yarrow’s history, traditional uses, clinical applications, chemistry, and safety precautions.
4] AGES (Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety) – Yarrow
Provides information on yarrow’s traditional uses, active compounds, and safety considerations from a European regulatory perspective.
5] University of Ioannina – Achillea millefolium
Provides information on yarrow’s pharmacological effects, therapeutic applications, and method of administration.