I’ve heard of the herb yarrow spoken of with great respect over the years, so it was with interest that I read about it in Hydrosols: The Next Aromatherapy, by Suzanne Catty. Until I did, I hadn’t realized that yarrow is an exceptionally good weight loss herb as it is diuretic and most importantly it helps to metabolize fat. It is also good for many other conditions.

There are 101 ways to use hydrosols, also known as floral waters (of which rose water is a famous example).One way of understanding hydrosols is that they are are used a bit like aromatherapy and a bit like herbal waters. They can be spritzed into the air, they can be dabbed on the skin, they can be sprayed into the throat. Learn more about hydrosols.

A great balancer both physically and mentally, yarrow stabilizes body fluids and gets rid of excess water without being overly diuretic. Use it in a compress on its own or in combination with goldenrod for fluid in joints and rheumatic pain or for any area of swelling where fluid has accumulated. A mild antibacterial and antiseptic, it helps with problem skin, acne, and dermal infections, and as an anti-inflammatory it helps heal damage from sun and wind. Effective for cleaning wounds, it helps stop bleeding and could be used as an aftershave for its styptic properties, although, because of its odor, you may wish to blend it with other, more pleasingly aromatic waters.

Yarrow is a very effective water for use on animals, as they like the smell. Skin problems and digestive issues will benefit particularly. For some the aroma is off-putting. In this case, combine yarrow with other hydrosols and essential oils that improve its fragrance. This water provides mental calm and can help one find peace. Like the oil, it is highly energetic and good for spiritual or distance work. Combine it with juniper berry for cleansing the aura, crystals, and work spaces.

Aroma and taste: Strongly aromatic but not particularly pleasant; has been described as “puppy breath.” Absolutely not floral in aroma or taste. The flavor is better than the smell but not by a lot, and it tastes better in stronger dilution than in weaker ones.

Stability and shelf life: Stable to very stable; can last up to two years, although it may develop a gray color and fine particulate matter after about 14 months. Check the pH if you have any doubts.

Properties and applications: One metric ton of yarrow flowers produces less than 500 milliliters (one-half liter) of oil, so this is perhaps one of the more potent hydrosols. It is a good digestive aid and is significantly detoxifying, but in a gentle manner.

A three-week course will improve digestion, increase elimination, and calm gastric spasms and rumbles and is recommended as part of a cleanse or weight-loss program. It improves digestion of fatty foods and seems to have hepatostimulant and/or cholagogue (bile releasing) properties, since it can quickly relieve indigestion and heartburn caused by overindulgence.

Yarrow is antispasmodic for the digestive, reproductive, and muscular systems, used topically or internally. Cooling, it helps reduce fever and eases aches and pains in association with flu and colds. It is anti-inflammatory and can be used as a compress with cypress for varicose veins and in a sitz bath for hemorrhoids and excessive or painful menstrual periods or postpartum healing.

It also isn’t hard to make your own yarrow tea powder, one other way to reap the benefits of yarrow for weight loss.

Adapted from Hydrosols: The Next Aromatherapy by Suzanne Catty (Healing Arts Press, 2001).