Yarrow in Skincare: Natural Healing for Inflammation and Redness
Wild Wisdom for Calm, Balanced Skin.
Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, is a powerhouse herb that has been trusted for centuries to heal, calm, and restore. Now, it is earning its place in modern natural skincare thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-repairing properties.
Yarrow thrives where other plants falter. You’ll find it between paving stones, in dry stonewalls, and across windswept Scottish meadows. With its feathery leaves and flat-topped flowers, yarrow looks delicate, but this is a plant of quiet strength.
In Gaelic, it is called lus na fola—herb of blood—a nod to its traditional use to stop bleeding and support wound healing. Today, it features in high-performance natural skincare for its ability to soothe stressed or unbalanced skin.
So Why Use Yarrow in Skincare?
Yarrow contains a unique blend of active compounds including chamazulene, flavonoids, and tannins. These help reduce inflammation, calm redness, and support skin regeneration. The benefits of yarrow in skincare include:
Minimising irritation and sensitivity
Supporting the skin barrier
Calming hormonal breakouts
Helping minor blemishes and wounds heal
Balancing oily or reactive skin
Its astringent yet soothing nature makes it suitable for both oily and sensitive skin types. Yarrow is especially valuable in formulations designed to calm inflammation and promote healthy skin turnover.
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From Achilles to Herbal Lore: Yarrow in Myth and Legend
The Latin name Achillea millefolium tells a story. According to Greek mythology, Achilles was taught herbal healing by Chiron, the wise centaur. During the Trojan War, he used yarrow to treat wounded soldiers. The genus name Achillea honours this tale, while millefolium—meaning "a thousand leaves"—describes the plant’s finely divided foliage.
In Scottish, Celtic, and Norse traditions, yarrow was carried into battle, used in love charms and divination rituals, and burned in protective bundles. It was believed to bring clarity, courage, and connection—qualities that still resonate in modern herbalism.
This long-standing relationship with yarrow speaks to its dual nature. It is both practical and symbolic—a botanical ally for the skin, the body, and the spirit.
Yarrow Honey for Inner Glow
Yarrow also supports skin from the inside. This simple botanical honey combines gentle medicinal properties with everyday nourishment.
YOU WILL NEED:
- Raw honey
- 3 or 4 fresh yarrow flower heads
- Lightly crush the flower heads and submerge in honey.
- Leave on a sunny windowsill for 3 to 5 days.
- Strain and store in a cool cupboard. Use within two months.
- Stir into warm tea, oat milk, or porridge for a subtle daily skin ritual.
Yarrow and Orange Herbal Tonic (Alcohol-Free)
This non-alcoholic tonic combines the bitter depth of yarrow with bright citrus to create arefreshing herbal spritz. Perfect after meals or as a calming evening drink.
WHAT YOU NEED:
• Zest of 1 unwaxed orange
• 1 tablespoon dried yarrow flowers
• 1 teaspoon dried angelica root or lemon balm
• 200 millilitres water
• 1 teaspoon raw honey
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Simmer zest, yarrow, and angelica in the water.
- Cover and steep for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Strain, stir in the honey and vinegar while warm, and refrigerate. Use within one week.
To serve: Mix 25 millilitres tonic syrup with 100 millilitres sparkling water over ice. Garnishwith a twist of orange or a sprig of yarrow.
How to Grow Yarrow
Yarrow is hardy and low-maintenance. It prefers poor, well-drained soil and full sun. Avoid overwatering. Once established, it spreads easily and can be divided in spring or autumn. Cutting back after the first bloom may encourage a second flush.
To dry, hang small bunches upside down in a cool, dark space. Dried yarrow retains its light peppery scent and is perfect for teas, sachets, or home skincare infusions.
Yarrow in Spellbind Serum
Yarrow’s healing power comes to life in Spellbind Serum, our bestselling botanical concentrate designed to calm, nourish, and revitalise the skin. This silken serum harnesses the traditional wisdom of herbal skincare and delivers it through a modern, high-performance formula.
At the heart of the blend is yarrow oil, prized for its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. It works to reduce redness, ease sensitivity, and promote skin balance—making it especially effective for dry, reactive, or mature skin.
Together, these ingredients create a deeply reparative serum that restores radiance while strengthening the skin’s natural resilience. It absorbs easily and layers well under moisturiser or facial oil.
How to use:
Apply 2–3 drops to damp, freshly cleansed skin, morning or evening. Use daily or best results.Spellbind is suitable for all skin types and particularly beneficial for those experiencing dryness, dullness, sensitivity, or early signs of ageing.
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The Author: Arabella Harvey, Founder, Raven Botanicals
Arabella is the co-founder and creative energy behind Raven Botanicals. With a background in visual arts, Arabella works alongside sister Charlotte to blend botanical science with aesthetic integrity. Her passion for sustainability informs Raven Botanicals’ commitment to ethical, small-batch skincare that nourishes both skin and soul.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of yarrow for the skin?
Yarrow is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent properties. It helps calm irritation, supports skin regeneration, balances oil production, and promotes a clearer, more even complexion.
Is yarrow suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin?
Yes, yarrow is gentle enough for sensitive skin and effective for acne-prone types. Its soothing and antibacterial qualities can help reduce breakouts and redness without causing dryness or irritation.
How does yarrow help reduce inflammation and redness?
Yarrow contains flavonoids and azulene, natural compounds that calm inflammatory responses in the skin. These work to reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort, especially in conditions like eczema, rosacea, or reactive skin.
Can I use yarrow-based skincare daily?
Absolutely. Yarrow is safe for daily use when formulated properly. It works well in serums, oils, and toners to gently support skin health over time and enhance resilience against environmental stress.
