Dermatitis yarrow

Achillea millefolium (yarrow) can cause contact dermatitis (4) a generalized eruption following the drinking of yarrow tea has also been reported (5). 

E.3 ContactedlerpfensThc sesquiterpene lactones of the Asteraceae, e.g. chrysanthemums, asters and daisies, are well-known causes of contact allergic dermatitis. Patients with such allergies should avoid (and should be advised to avoid) herbs such as Artemisia (Mugwort), Chamomile, Yarrow (Achillea). Feverfew, Echinacea-inA Arnica because of cross-sensitisation. 

Yarrow stops bleeding wounds and is used as a healing lotion and ointment. It also is used to reduce pain and heavy bleeding due to menstrual irregularities and helps to regulate the menstrual cycle. Yarrow enhances circulation, lowers blood pressure, and has an antispasmodic and anti-microbial effect. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect on skin and on mucous membranes. The most frequently reported side effect of Yarrow is dermatitis (skin rash). Yarrow should not be used for patients who have epilepsy or are pregnant. 

Davies, M.G., and P.J. Kersey. 1986. Contact allergy to yarrow and dandelion. Contact Dermat. 14(4) 256-257. 

Hausen, B.M., J. Breuer, J. Weglewski, and G. Rucker. 1991. alpha-Peroxyachifolid and other new sensitizing sesquiterf)ene lactones from yarrow (Achillea millefolium L., Compositae). Contact Dermat. 24<4) 274-280. 

Contact dermatitis from tansy has been reported and is attributed to sesquiterpene lactone compounds in the plant. Cross-reactivity has been reported between sesquiterpene lactone-containing plants in the Asteraceae family including tansy, dandelion, feverfew, and yarrow (Guin and Skidmore 1987 Hausen 1996 Hausen and Osmundsen 1983 Killoran et al. 2007 Mark et al. 1999 Opdyke 1979 Paulsen et al. 1993,2001). 

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