Yarrow Salve
- Brianne Thomas
- Sep 15
- 5 min read
Yarrow is a versatile herb known for its healing properties, particularly effective in treating cuts, burns, and bruises. Creating your own yarrow salve is not only rewarding but also ensures you have a natural remedy on hand.
This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy.
I have been on a journey for the last few years to change our habits when it comes to food. I began by growing a garden in our suburban backyard, making friends with local farmers and producers, and preserving the food I’ve grown or sourced locally. Along the way, I’ve also been learning more and more about herbal medicine. I’ve been stocking my homemade herbal first aid kit with things like Homemade Fire Cider, Homemade Fire Cider Gummies, Lemon Balm Oil, and Goldenrod Salve. Next up, Yarrow Salve!
What is Yarrow?
Achillea millefolium, commonly referred to as Yarrow, is a hardy perennial herb that boasts a rich history in traditional medicine and herbal practices. This versatile plant thrives in temperate climates across the Northern Hemisphere, including regions in Asia, Europe, and North America. Yarrow has also found a place in folklore and rituals, symbolizing courage and protection. It has been documented that Native Americans and early settlers used yarrow for its astringent qualities that made it effective in wound healing and anti-bleeding. Its adaptability and resilience make it a popular choice for gardens, where it not only adds beauty but also attracts beneficial insects, contributing to a healthy ecosystem.
What Are The Benefits of Yarrow Salve
Reduce Skin Inflammation. Yarrow can be beneficial to aid skin irritations such as eczema. The extracts of yarrow can help the skin fight oxidative damage and help to maintain elasticity as well. You can read more about the science of Yarrow HERE.
Promote Blood Circulation. Yarrow salve enhances blood circulation, which benefits conditions like varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Promoting better circulation, it also helps prevent the buildup of uric acid in the joints and muscles, thus alleviating symptoms of rheumatism and arthritis.
Skin Care. Yarrow salve can also help to tighten the skin to minimize pores, reduce acne, smooth out wrinkles, and eliminate excess oil due to its astringent properties.
Treat Wounds. Yarrow is commonly known as the “nosebleed plant” because it has been known to clot the blood in wounds and aid in nosebleed disorders.
Advertisement
Other Benefits of Yarrow
Yarrow tea has also been widely recognized for its effectiveness in addressing various digestive issues, including ulcers and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) like abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, and constipation. Rich in flavonoids and alkaloids, these beneficial plant compounds are particularly noted for their ability to alleviate digestive discomfort and enhance overall gut health.
When Does Yarrow Bloom?
Yarrow is easily recognizable by its feathery, fern-like leaves and clusters of small, white to pale yellow flowers that bloom in the summer
How and Where to Gather Yarrow
Ideally, you'll harvest your own yarrow. Ensure you are harvesting from an area free of pesticides and herbicides. If you aren't able to harvest it yourself, you can purchase dried yarrow from reputable herbal suppliers.
Yarrow flowers are packed with aromatic oils like chamazulene and camphor, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and astringent effects. Meanwhile, the leaves are high in tannins, giving them antibacterial properties that make them effective for wound healing. I recommend using both the flowers and the leaves to get the most beneficial properties.
How to Dry Yarrow
I prefer to use my Excalibur Dehydrator to quickly dry my herbs and flowers. However, you can also air-dry yarrow by tying the ends together with twine and hanging them upside down in a cool, dry area that is well-ventilated. Air drying herbs can take a few days to a week or more. It's best to keep a close eye on the air-drying herbs to ensure there is no mold growth on them.
Helpful Tips for Making Yarrow Salve
Use high-quality ingredients: Organic olive oil and beeswax ensure a pure and effective salve.
Herb Absorption. Dried herbs can absorb a lot of the oil. After 24 hours, check to ensure the ratio is more oil to yarrow. Add more oil if needed.
Be patient during infusion: Allow ample time for the yarrow to infuse into the oil for maximum potency.
Test for allergies: Before applying liberally, test a small amount of the salve on a discreet area of skin to check for any allergic reactions.
Other Oils That Can Be Used to Make Yarrow Salve
Organic carrier oils such as Argan, Avocado, Hemp, Rosehip, or Sweet Almond can be used in place of organic olive oil.
Recommended Equipment for Making Yarrow Salve
Dehydrator (Quicker than airdrying herbs, but not necessary)
Double boiler or heat-safe bowl and saucepan
Clean glass jars or tins for storage
Cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve
Spoon or spatula
How To Make A Double Boiler
To make a double boiler, you’ll need a saucepan and a shallow, heat-resistant mixing bowl.
The bowl should sit snugly on top of the saucepan, with its outer edge resting against the upper rim to form a seal that retains steam. Ensure there are a few inches of space between the bottom of the saucepan and the bowl, allowing you to add water to the saucepan without it coming into contact with the bowl.
Advertisement
Want to Learn More About Medicinal Herbs?
Yield: Approximately 8 ounces
Ingredients
1 cup of dried yarrow flowers
1 cup of olive oil
1/4 cup of beeswax pellets
Directions
Place 1 cup of dried yarrow flowers in a jar. Pour the olive oil over the yarrow until fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly.
Place the jar in a warm, sunny spot for 2-4 weeks, shaking it gently every few days. For a quicker method, use a double boiler to gently heat the oil and yarrow for 3-4 hours on low heat.
Once the infusion is complete, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl, discarding the yarrow.
Transfer the strained oil into the top of a double boiler.
Add the beeswax pellets to the infused oil in the double boiler. Heat gently, stirring every couple of minutes or so until the beeswax is completely melted.
Carefully pour the liquid salve into glass jars or tins.
Allow the salve to cool and solidify at room temperature. Once set, seal the containers and label them with the date and contents.
How to Store Yarrow Salve
Once the salve has cooled completely, store in a cool, dark cabinet. Homemade yarrow salve typically has a shelf life of 1-2 years.
How to Use Yarrow Salve
Please note that Yarrow Salve is intended for external use only. Apply a small amount of the yarrow salve to any cuts, bruises, or dry skin areas as needed. Its soothing and healing properties will help rejuvenate the skin and promote faster healing.
DISCLAIMER: This Yarrow Salve recipe contains information about traditional herbal remedies for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbs, especially if pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have medical conditions. By making and using this Yarrow Salve recipe, you acknowledge you are solely responsible for your health decisions.
Want to help a small family business in a big way? Share our website with a friend who enjoys delicious from-scratch food, gardening projects, herbal medicine, food preservation, and easy-to-download printables!
Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank-you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here to sign up for our newsletter today!
Advertisement
Comments