Menstrual pain, irregular cycles, pelvic inflammations, and even menopausal symptoms have been treated over time with medicinal plants. Maria Treben recommends yarrow, a plant used since ancient times, known as the women’s herb due to its balancing and anti-inflammatory effects on the female reproductive system.
Original Recommendations by Maria Treben
No woman should go through life without drinking at least occasionally a tea made from yarrow. It is beneficial for all women’s ailments.
Maria Treben, Health from the Pharmacy of the Lord
Treben recommends drinking the tea internally, as well as taking sitz baths with yarrow, to soothe pelvic inflammations, pain, and menstrual disorders.
Authentic Recipe
Tea for Internal Use
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1 tablespoon of dried yarrow
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250 ml boiling water
Preparation:
Pour boiling water over the plant and let it steep for 5-10 minutes, then strain.
Administration:
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Drink 12 cups per day, preferably 30 minutes before meals.
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In case of menstrual pain, a course of 7 days before and during the cycle is recommended.
Sitz Bath
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100 g dried plant
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Soak overnight in 2-3 liters of cold water.
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The next day, heat until just before boiling and strain into a basin.
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The bath lasts 20 minutes and should be repeated 2-3 times a week.
Benefits
Yarrow
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Contains flavonoids, essential oil (with azulene), sesquiterpene lactones, and tannins.
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Has antispasmodic action, reducing menstrual cramps and pelvic pain.
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Regulates menstrual flow, being useful in both heavy and light cycles.
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Has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects, recommended in adnexal inflammations and pelvic infections.
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In sitz baths, reduces congestion and promotes the healing of mucous membranes.
What Modern Studies Say
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Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2013): yarrow has uterotonic and anti-inflammatory effects, being useful in dysmenorrhea and gynecological disorders.
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Phytomedicine (2014): yarrow extract demonstrated analgesic and relaxing effects on uterine smooth muscle.
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Planta Medica (2016): confirms its antibacterial and antifungal action, justifying its traditional use in genital infections.
Contraindications
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Not to be administered during pregnancy (may stimulate uterine contractions).
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Contraindicated for individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (ragweed, daisies).
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Prolonged use may cause photosensitivity in some individuals (increased sensitivity to sunlight).
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Should only be used in recommended doses, as excess may irritate the stomach.
Sources:
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Maria Treben – Health from the Pharmacy of the Lord
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Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Pharmacological effects of Achillea millefolium in gynecological disorders
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Phytomedicine, Yarrow extract as an antispasmodic and analgesic
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Planta Medica, Antimicrobial activity of Achillea millefolium
