By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 20, 2024
10 Medicinal Constituents Of Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow)
Achillea millefolium has active constituents such as sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, and volatile oils.
These constituents impart medicinal properties such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antispasmodic effects. For instance, sesquiterpenes can help alleviate menstrual cramps and reduce fever, while flavonoids may improve cardiovascular health and antioxidant defenses. Volatile oils can soothe digestive issues and reduce stress.
By harnessing these properties, individuals can alleviate various health concerns and enjoy improved well-being.
This article explains in details the 10 best active constituents of Achillea millefolium.
1. Saponins
Achillea millefolium saponins is a type of glycoside found in the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers.
These saponins have been shown to possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticoagulant properties, making them useful for wound healing, reducing fever, and treating various infectious diseases.
They also exhibit antioxidant activity, which can help protect against cell damage caused by free radicals.
2. Flavonoids
Achillea millefolium flavonoids is a group of plant compounds that are responsible for its medicinal properties.
These flavonoids include apigenin, luteolin, and kaempferol, which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities.
They have been traditionally used to treat various health conditions, including wounds, fever, and digestive issues, and have also been studied for their potential therapeutic effects in modern medicine.
3. Triterpenes
Achillea millefolium triterpenes is a class of bioactive compounds responsible for its medicinal properties.
These triterpenes are a type of complex lipid molecule that has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal activities.
Studies have demonstrated the potential of Achillea millefolium triterpenes in treating various diseases, including wounds, infections, and even certain types of cancer.
4. Phenolic acids
5. Lactones
6. Acetophenones
Achillea millefolium acetophenones is a class of bioactive compounds found in its leaves and stems.
These acetophenones have been shown to possess various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. They are believed to contribute to the plant's traditional uses in wound healing, infection treatment, and digestive issues.
Research on these compounds continues to uncover their potential benefits for human health and disease prevention.
7. Sesquiterpenes
Achillea millefolium sesquiterpenes is a class of bioactive compounds that are responsible for its medicinal properties.
These compounds are composed of 15 carbon atoms and have been shown to exhibit antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal activities.
Sesquiterpenes from yarrow have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including wounds, skin conditions, and digestive issues.
8. Carotenoids
Achillea millefolium carotenoids is a group of yellow, orange, and red pigments found in the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers.
These pigments are responsible for the plant's vibrant coloration and have been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect against cell damage and reduce inflammation.
Carotenoids in yarrow may also contribute to the plant's traditional uses as a wound healing agent and antimicrobial treatment.
9. Ascorbic acid
Achillea millefolium ascorbic acid is a vital nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health.
This antioxidant-rich compound is found in the plant's leaves and flowers, which have been traditionally used to treat various ailments. Ascorbic acid has been shown to boost immune function, fight off free radicals, and support collagen production, making it an essential component of a healthy diet.
Its presence in yarrow extracts makes them even more effective for medicinal purposes.
10. Fatty acids
Achillea millefolium fatty acids is a unique combination of compounds found in its leaves and flowers.
The plant's essential oil contains a variety of fatty acids, including palmitic, stearic, and oleic acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
These fatty acids have been traditionally used to treat wounds, skin conditions, and digestive issues, and modern research has confirmed their efficacy in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing.