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Yarrow Extract

Also known as: Achillea millefolium L., Yarrow, Milfoil, Thousand-leaf, Achillea millefolium

Overview

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia. It is characterized by its feathery leaves and clusters of small white or yellow flowers. Traditionally, yarrow has been used in medicine for wound healing, fever reduction, and as a mosquito repellent. The extract contains sesquiterpene lactones, polyacetylenes, simple coumarins, and flavonoids, contributing to its hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Yarrow extract is now used in dermatological treatments, reproductive health management, and potentially in cancer therapy. Research is ongoing to explore its pharmacological properties, but more comprehensive studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans. It is available in various forms, including oil extracts, ethanolic extracts, and fractions obtained through advanced extraction methods.

Benefits

Yarrow extract offers several potential health benefits. Its anti-inflammatory activity has been demonstrated in studies, showing significant improvements in artificially irritated skin by restoring skin pH and hydration. In reproductive health, particularly for women with PCOS, yarrow extract has shown promise in improving hormone levels and ovarian histology in animal models. Additionally, certain fractions of yarrow extract exhibit antiproliferative activity against colorectal cancer cells by inhibiting key lipid metabolic targets. The antioxidant properties of yarrow extracts also contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative effects. While traditional use suggests it aids in wound healing, more modern clinical evidence is needed to support this benefit. The clinical significance of these benefits is promising but requires further validation through larger, well-controlled human trials.

How it works

Yarrow extract exerts its effects through several biological pathways. Its anti-inflammatory action involves modulating inflammatory responses, reducing erythema, and restoring skin pH and hydration. In the context of PCOS, yarrow extract influences hormone levels, affecting LH, FSH, estradiol, and progesterone. The antiproliferative activity observed in cancer cells is linked to the inhibition of key lipid metabolic targets such as *SREBF1*, *FASN*, *ABCA1*, and *HMGCR*, as well as epithelial to mesenchymal transition markers. These interactions occur within the skin, reproductive system, and cancer cells, respectively. Advanced extraction methods, such as supercritical-antisolvent-precipitation, may enhance the bioavailability of yarrow's bioactive compounds.

Side effects

While yarrow extract has a history of traditional use, comprehensive safety data, especially for cosmetic applications and long-term use, is lacking. Common side effects in humans are not well-documented, but allergic reactions are possible, particularly in individuals with known allergies to plants in the Compositae family. Sensitization reactions have been reported in some clinical tests involving Compositae mix containing yarrow. Due to its potential effects on hormone regulation and other biological pathways, caution is advised regarding drug interactions. Yarrow extract is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. Individuals with known allergies to Compositae family plants should avoid it. Its use should be monitored in reproductive health contexts due to potential hormonal effects.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of yarrow extract varies depending on the application. For anti-inflammatory effects, topical application of oil extracts has shown efficacy. In animal models of PCOS, a dose of 5 g/kg was effective. Topical applications typically use concentrations of 0.5% to 10% in cosmetic formulations. Oral administration has been tested up to 5 g/kg in animal models, but human dosing requires further research. There is no established maximum safe dose for human consumption. Oil extracts are recommended for dermatological applications, while ethanolic extracts may be used for systemic effects, such as in PCOS management. Advanced extraction methods like supercritical-antisolvent-precipitation can enhance bioavailability. Further clinical investigation is needed to determine optimal dosages and timing for various health conditions.

FAQs

Is yarrow extract safe?

Yarrow extract is generally considered safe in traditional use, but comprehensive safety data is lacking, especially for long-term use and in cosmetic applications. Consult with a healthcare provider before use.

How should I use yarrow extract?

Topical application is typically as needed for skin conditions, while oral administration timing depends on the specific health condition and requires further research. Follow product-specific instructions.

What results can I expect from using yarrow extract?

Anti-inflammatory effects can be expected within a few days of topical application. Hormonal improvements in PCOS may take several weeks to manifest. Results vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated.

Is yarrow extract a cure-all?

No, yarrow extract is not a cure-all. Its efficacy and safety need to be established through rigorous clinical trials. It should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Research Sources

https://futurenatprod.skums.ac.ir/PDF/fnp-105.pdf – This animal study investigated the effects of yarrow extract on PCOS in rats. The study found that high doses of yarrow extract (5 g/kg) improved hormone levels and ovarian histology in PCOS-induced rats, suggesting a potential therapeutic role. However, the findings are limited to an animal model and require confirmation through human trials.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163113/ – This in vivo double-blind randomized study examined the anti-inflammatory activity of yarrow oil extracts. The study demonstrated that yarrow oil extracts restored skin pH and hydration, and reduced erythema in volunteers with artificially irritated skin, indicating its potential as an anti-inflammatory agent. The study was limited by its short duration and focus on skin irritation.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11558643/ – This review assessed the available safety data of yarrow extract. The review concluded that there is insufficient data to fully support the safety of yarrow extract, particularly in cosmetic applications, highlighting the need for further safety studies. The assessment underscores the importance of comprehensive safety evaluations before widespread use.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/bioengineering-and-biotechnology/articles/10.3389/fbioe.2024.1256190/full – This study investigated the antiproliferative activity of Yarrow-Sep, a fraction obtained through supercritical-antisolvent-precipitation, on colorectal cancer cells. The results showed that Yarrow-Sep inhibited key lipid metabolic targets and epithelial to mesenchymal transition markers, suggesting its potential as a complementary nutraceutical in CRC treatment. The study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying yarrow's anticancer effects.
https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/plantmaterials/mtpmcpg13974.pdf – This resource from the USDA provides general information about yarrow, including its traditional uses and characteristics. It highlights yarrow's historical use for wound healing and its hemostatic properties. The document serves as a basic reference for understanding yarrow's background and traditional applications.