In early 2024, the International Herb Association recognized Yarrow Achillea millefolium as the Herb of the Year, celebrating its diverse health benefits and rich history in herbal medicine. This resilient plant, known for its feathery leaves and clusters of tiny flowers, has been a staple in traditional healing practices for centuries. Its role in supporting a healthy immune system is one of its most prized attributes, making it a valuable ally in our quest for wellness. Read more about the history of Yarrow here.
Therapeutic Benefits of Yarrow
Yarrow is renowned for its ability to bolster the body's natural defenses. With its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, it helps to fortify the immune system, preparing it to ward off common ailments like colds and flu. It can also act as a natural insect repellent and a soothing perfume. Learn more about the many therapeutic benefits of Yarrow here.
To enjoy the benefits of Yarrow, you can incorporate this herb into your daily routine in ways that are both delicious and supportive. To help you get started, we’re excited to share four Yarrow-based recipes that will help you maintain a healthy immune system this fall. Whether you're preparing a comforting tea or a potent tincture, these recipes offer simple yet powerful ways to integrate Yarrow into your wellness regimen.
Yarrow Recipes for Wellness
Yarrow Shield Herbal Tea
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce of Yarrow Achillea millefolium flowers
- 1 ounce of Chamomile German Matricaria recutita flowers
- 1 ounce of Peppermint Mentha ×piperita leaves
Directions:
Blend the herbs and store them in an airtight container. As needed, use one teaspoon of the herb blend to prepare one cup of tea. Drink as desired when you feel a cold or flu coming on.
Fever Support Tincture
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce of Yarrow Achillea millefolium leaves and flowers
- 1 ounce of Elder Sambucus nigra flowers
- 1 ounce of Peppermint Mentha ×piperita leaves
- 1 pint of Vodka, brandy, or cider vinegar
Directions:
Mix the herbs with alcohol or cider vinegar in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, such as a canning or preserving jar. Keep the tincture in a tightly closed jar in a warm spot (but not in the sun) for approximately two weeks. Shake the tincture two to three times every day.
After two weeks, strain the tincture through pharmaceutical filter paper, a coffee filter, cheesecloth, or muslin. You may need to strain your tincture two or even three times to remove all of the herb solids. Leaving solids in your tincture may lead to mold and spoilage.
This is a useful diaphoretic remedy for maintaining a normal body temperature. Use 10 to 20 drops in water or pure juice three to four times daily for adults.
Flu First Aid Beverage
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces of Yarrow Achillea millefolium leaves and flowers
- 2 pints of Filtered water (boiling)
- Honey to taste
Directions:
Place the yarrow into a ceramic teapot and add the boiling water. Infuse the yarrow for 20 minutes and then strain and sweeten with honey. Use one-half cup every two hours. A dash of cayenne Capsicum annuum (L.) and ginger Zingiber officinale (Roscoe) will enhance the action.
Yarrow Cold and Flu Blend
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces of Yarrow Achillea millefolium leaves and flowers
- 1 ounce of Ginger Zingiber officinale root
- 3 pints of Filtered water
- 2 cups of Honey or molasses
- 1 cup of Vegetable glycerin (optional)
Directions:
Simmer the herbs in the water until the water reduces to approximately two pints. Strain, and while still hot, add the honey or molasses. Allow to cool, and then pour into sterile bottles. You may add vegetable glycerin to help preserve the formula. You may also want to store this in the refrigerator.
Use four tablespoons four times a day between meals.
Yarrow: Your Go-To Herb
Yarrow Achillea millefolium truly earns its title as the 2024 Herb of the Year, offering a remarkable array of benefits for those seeking to enhance their immune health naturally. Its longstanding reputation in herbal medicine is supported by its powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, making it a versatile addition to any wellness routine.
As we navigate the challenges of maintaining health and wellness, Yarrow provides an accessible and effective means to support our body's defenses. Whether enjoyed in a comforting herbal tea or used in a potent tincture, the recipes shared here offer simple yet impactful ways to incorporate this mighty herb into your daily life.
Learn more about the International Herb Association Herb of the Year program.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. This article has not been reviewed by the FDA. Always consult with your primary care physician or naturopathic doctor before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.
