Achillea Millefolium - the herb with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory actions

Achillea millefolium � a perennial flowering plant that is related to chamomile � has been highly prized by traditional healers for centuries for its wide range of medicinal properties, particularly with regards to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory actions. It has been used to combat everything from infections and wounds, to digestive disorders and arthritis (Kultur S. J Ethnopharmacol. 2007;111(2):341-64).

It is believed that the plant was named after Achilles � the ancient Greek Trojan war hero. According to legend, Achilles used the plant to help heal the injuries of wounded Greek soldiers and prevent hemorrhaging. The plant is renowned for its effectiveness at speeding the recovery time of wounds, which is thought to be a result of its ability to reduce inflammation, lower the risk of infection and prevent excessive bleeding.

Another area in which achillea appears to provide therapeutic benefits is against colds and flu� and with the cold and flu season fast approaching it�s good to be prepared. Many herbalists recommend combining achillea with 50mg of elderflower extract (Sambucus nigra) three times a day, and 125mg of peppermint extract (Mentha piperita) a day, to aid recovery.

In fact, recent research findings have revealed that the plant contains at least 25 different beneficial chemicals, including lactones, which stimulate important immune-boosting cells such as human neutrophil cells that help destroy infectious bugs (Phytochemistry. 2007 May 25; Epub ahead of print).

Achillea Millefolium provides much-needed relief from swelling and pain

Achillea also contains beneficial substances called coumarins and salicylic acid � both of which prevent abnormal clotting of the blood and promote circulation. Salicylic acid also lowers the body�s levels of inflammatory prostaglandins � hormone-like substances that promote pain and inflammation.

In fact Aspirin (acetyl salicylic acid) is a synthetic form of this chemical. Supplements of achillea, although slower-acting, provide all the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory benefits of aspirin without the drug�s notorious side effect of stomach irritation.

In addition, the plant is made up of sterols, terpenes and tannins, which also possess potent anti-inflammatory properties and aid digestion (Chem Biodivers. 2007 May 18;4(5):849-857,  Epub ahead of print). 

In an animal study conducted by scientists from the School of Pharmacy, Al-Isra University in Jordan, achillea extract was compared to the conventional anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac. Two groups of animals were involved in the study, all of which had infected paws. One group was treated with diclofenac gel and the other was treated with 6% achillea extract gel.

The scientists found that diclofenac improved swelling and pain in 47 per cent of the animals, whereas achillea performed slightly better at 48 per cent (Acta Pol Pharm. 2006;63(4):277-80). Not only did achillea�s effects rival those of diclofenac, it is also far safer than conventional anti-inflammatories like this one, which can cause unpleasant side effects such as nausea, vomiting and indigestion.

Achillea Millefolium: Alleviates symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and helps prevent stomach ulcers

Scientists have discovered that flavonoids present in achillea are able to relax the muscles surrounding the bowel and reduce painful stomach cramps. In an animal study, scientists from the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, in Austria, studied these flavanoids � including quercetin, luteolin and apigenin � on bowel tissue.

Commenting on their findings the researchers said: �in tea prepared from achillea, the concentration of the flavonoids is high enough to exert a muscle-relaxing effect in the gut, which is mainly caused by blockade of the calcium current (Arzneimittelforschung. 2006;56(8):582-8).

In this quote the scientists are alluding to how achillea interferes with the flow of minerals, such as calcium, inside the cells of your bowel, which causes the muscles to relax. This action also prevents painful spasms and helps relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) such as abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhoea.

Further research has shown that achillea may be beneficial against an excessive build up of acid in the stomach, which, left unchecked, can cause ulcers. In an animal study carried out at the Department of Pharmacology, University of Paran�, in Brazil, scientists assessed the effects of alcohol and indomethacin (a well known prescription anti-inflammatory drug, which can cause stomach ulcers as a side effect).  A number of the animals were also given achillea extract.

After three months, the scientists found that none of the animals receiving achillea developed stomach ulcers, whereas those animals which did not take the plant extract developed ulcers as expected. What was more, there were no side effects reported following the use of achillea (J Ethnopharmacol. 2006 Sep 19;107(2):277-84).

Achillea Millefolium: What to take for best results

It is important to be aware that achillea is not intended to be taken for long periods of time (longer than one month), as it may cause skin allergies or make your skin more susceptible to sunlight.

The dried herb is available in capsule form � take 2,000mg three times a day. Alternatively, dry achillea leaves can be used to make a tea � add one teaspoon of the leaves to boiling water and drink up to three cups a day. The essential oil from the flowers (for external use only) can be used to relieve joint pain � apply four to five drops and massage into the affected area several times a day.