Evidence supporting the use of: Yarrow
For the health condition: Ulcerations (external)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has a long history of traditional use for treating external ulcerations and wounds. Its use dates back to ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Native Americans, who applied crushed yarrow leaves or extracts to skin injuries, ulcers, and sores to promote healing. The traditional rationale was based on yarrow's reputed ability to stop bleeding, reduce inflammation, and stimulate tissue repair, which made it a staple in folk medicine for external skin conditions.
Modern phytochemical analyses have shown that yarrow contains a range of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and sesquiterpene lactones, some of which possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent properties. These properties could theoretically contribute to wound healing and protection against infection. However, while in vitro and animal studies have indicated these effects, robust clinical trials in humans specifically targeting yarrow's effectiveness for external ulcerations are lacking. Most evidence supporting its use remains anecdotal or based on traditional practices rather than rigorous scientific validation.
In summary, yarrow's use for external ulcerations is primarily justified by traditional medicine, supported by some plausible mechanisms identified in laboratory studies, but not yet confirmed by high-quality human clinical research.
Other ingredients used for Ulcerations (external)
aloe verabisabolol
dyer’s woad root
Japanese sophora
lactoperoxidase
lauric acid
marshmallow
protease
vitamin C
zinc
rubia cordifolia
yarrow
moss
amber
birch
sheep's sorrel
assam indigo
camphor oil
stillingia
wood betony
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
arnica
Ardisia
acacia
Agrimony
Antirrhinum majus
Achyranthes
Abrus
Alchornea
Alchemilla
Ajuga
Aucubin
American Liverleaf
Aquilegia formosa
Allantoin
Alkanet
Ampelopsis
Acemannan
Asarabacca
Abuta
Alkanna
Arisaema
Butter
Bai Ji
Baliospermum
Baphicacanthus cusia
Bleeding Heart
Black-Eyed Susan
Bloodroot
Benzoin
Borate
Bletilla
Boxwood
Comfrey
Celandine
Cranesbill
Cedrus libani
Chiococca alba
Cocklebur
Dragon's Blood
Dianthrone
Erigeron
English Elm
European Field Elm
Echinodorus
Elaeagnus glabra
Oak
Other health conditions supported by yarrow
Abdominal PainAbrasions
Afterbirth Pain
Bleeding (external)
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cuts
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dyspepsia
Fever
Gas and Bloating
Indigestion
Inflammation
Injuries
Itching
Menstrual Irregularity
Pain (general remedies for)
Parasites (tapeworm)
Rashes and Hives
Scratches and Abrasions
Skin (infections)
Sore Throat
Sweat Baths (herbs for)
Ulcerations (external)
Ulcers
Wounds and Sores