Soothing yarrow oil for all
The Yarrow plant is a reservoir of therapeutic properties and the oldest known naturally healing oil according to Ayurveda. No wonder it is a favourite of healers and those following complementary and alternative Medicine. The erect herbaceous perennial herb is known throughout Europe, but also grows in abundance in Asia and North America. And there is an interesting story as to how the herb got its biological name Achillea millefolium.
Legends reveal that Greek hero of Trojan War, Achilles once hurt the back of his ankle and the herb was used to heal it. Hence, it earned the name Achilles tendon. While the Scottish once used it to ward off evil, the Swedish added it to some beers to boost health benefits.
It is known by some other names as well which include, milfoil – due to its feathery appearance, nosebleed, common yarrow and thousand leaf.
It works best when
It is most beneficial when inhaled or during vapour therapy. A few drops if the oil if added to a diffuser or a handkerchief can be inhaled occasionally or it may be added to bath water or massage oil for sensuous fragrance. Applying it as balms gives good results too.
The essential oil with cooling properties provides relief from pitta imbalances such as indigestion, heartburn and inflammation.
Benefits
Soothes inflamed skin & cuts: The oil heals inflamed wounds, cuts, burns, acne, rashes, stretch marks, dermatitis, psoriasis, dryness, eczema, unshorn skin and more almost miraculously and helps quicker formation of new skin. The oil is also effective on nasal, respiratory, digestive or circulatory system inflammations.
Antiseptic values: Yarrow oil forms a layer on the wounds and cuts, thus protecting it from bacterial, fungal, infections, intrusion of microbes or from developing septic.
Delays aging: An application of the oil tightens and moisturises the skin, thus relieving it from dryness, cracks, infections and visible, unsightly marks. It is excellent in controlling bleeding or hemorrhages too.
Ensures respiratory ease: With it expectorant, analgesic and decongestant properties, the essential oil provides relief in respiratory ailments such as congestion, cough, bronchitis, asthma attacks, cold and even controls the secretion of phlegm.
Boosts circulation & relieves pain: Yarrow oil promotes blood circulation and aids treating of hemorrhoids, varicose veins, menopausal disorders and irregular menstruation, cystitis, and more. It is a boon for arthritis, rheumatic patients as it prevents accumulation of uric acid in joints and muscles. It also removes toxins, extra salt and water from body through sweat and thus help with weight management.
Takes care of digestive system: Yarrow oil soothes digestive system and improves secretion of digestive juices. It also restores the health of liver and digestive organs and relieves cramps, bloating, constipation, indigestion, loss of appetite, heaviness along with pain in the chest, colic, flatulence, gall-bladder and intestinal pain, gastric catarrh, gas formation and more.
Calms nervous system: Many of those suffering from hypertension, insomnia, high blood pressure and stress have found refuge from yarrow oil. It not only tones up and relaxes the nervous system, but also boosts immunity. This relaxes the nerves, brain and muscles; reduces blood pressure and induces sleep.
Caution: The oil must no be administered on children, epileptics and expecting mothers or nursing women. Ideally, the oil must be applied along with carrier oils else it may lead to allergies or harm the skin.
Secondly, it is known to have neurotoxic effects if used for frequent or longer durations or in high doses. It may lead to headaches and irritate sensitive skin.
–windowtonews