Yarrow is a well-known diaphoretic herb that has long been used to reduce fevers and clear up congestive colds, flu, and other upper respiratory infections. It is also an excellent herb for cleansing programs, for which 2-3 droppersful of the tincture are added to hot water or cleansing teas and used in conjunction with saunas and sweating therapy. When used cold, the herb has the ability to clear heat and toxins, especially nitrogenous waste products from the body through the urine.

As a bitter tonic, it is used for lack of appetite, general debility, and convalescence. Yarrow helps regulate blood flow throughout the body, and coupled with its antiinflammatory action, it can relieve pain from arthritis and rheumatism. As a blood mover, it is also indicated for menstrual irregularities, such as sluggish or painful menses, delayed menstruation, and painful and heavy periods, having a mild pain-relieving effect as well as helping to remove blood congestion. It helps relieve spasms and inflammation and is sometimes helpful for irritable bowel complaints, colic, and intestinal and uterine cramps. Yarrow root is chewed to alleviate toothache.