Evidence supporting the use of: Fern-leaf yarrow
For the health condition: Insect Repellant

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Fern-leaf yarrow (Achillea filipendulina) has a traditional reputation as an insect repellent, primarily owing to its aromatic foliage and volatile oils. Historically, various species of yarrow (including Achillea millefolium and Achillea filipendulina) have been used in folk practices to deter insects. The strong scent of the leaves and flowers was believed to keep flies, mosquitoes, and other pests at bay, and yarrow plants were sometimes included in bouquets or strewn indoors for this purpose. Some records from European herbal traditions mention yarrow’s use to repel insects, and similar uses have been noted in North American ethnobotany.

Scientific validation for this practice is limited. Some studies have investigated the essential oils of related yarrow species, noting mild insecticidal or repellent properties, but specific evidence for Achillea filipendulina is sparse, and efficacy has not been robustly demonstrated. The rating reflects that while there is a longstanding traditional basis for its use as an insect repellent, the direct scientific evidence remains preliminary or extrapolated from related species rather than being well-established for fern-leaf yarrow itself.

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Products containing Fern-leaf yarrow

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.