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Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Common Names: Tansy, Golden Buttons, Bitter Buttons
  • Parts Used: Aerial parts (Leaves, Flowers)

Description

Tanacetum vulgare, commonly known as tansy, is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, widely recognized for its bright yellow button-like flowers. Traditionally, it has been used as an anthelmintic, digestive aid, and insect repellent. Due to its high content of thujone, tansy should be used with caution and under the supervision of a qualified practitioner.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in European herbal medicine to expel intestinal parasites.
  • Historically employed as a digestive bitter to support bile flow and ease indigestion.
  • Applied externally for wound healing and skin infections.
  • Utilized as a natural insect repellent and moth deterrent.
  • Traditionally incorporated into funeral rituals and embalming practices.

Constituents

  • Thujone
  • Camphor
  • Flavonoids
  • Sesquiterpene lactones
  • Tannins

Actions

  • Anthelmintic (Expels parasites)
  • Digestive stimulant
  • Carminative
  • Emmenagogue (Stimulates menstruation)
  • Antimicrobial
  • Insect repellent

Medicinal Uses

1. Parasite and Worm Expulsion:
Tansy has been traditionally used to expel intestinal worms, though its use is now limited due to toxicity concerns.

2. Digestive Health:
Used in small amounts as a bitter tonic to stimulate digestion and ease bloating.

3. Menstrual Health:
Historically taken to regulate delayed menstruation, though use should be approached with caution.

4. Insect Repellent:
Dried tansy is commonly placed in sachets to repel moths, flies, and insects.

5. Wound and Skin Applications:
A diluted infusion has been used externally to cleanse wounds and ease skin irritation.

Preparation and Dosage

⚠️ Note: Due to its thujone content, tansy should only be used under professional guidance.

Infusion (Tea from Leaves/Flowers):

  • ½ tsp of dried tansy per cup of hot water. Steep for 5-10 minutes. Use in moderation.

Tincture:

  • 1-3 drops diluted in water, taken up to twice daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Crushed fresh leaves applied externally to wounds and insect bites.

Sachets (Insect Repellent):

  • Dried flowers placed in closets or pantries to deter pests.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid entirely due to its emmenagogue and potential abortifacient effects.
  • Neurological Effects: High doses can be neurotoxic and cause seizures due to thujone content.
  • Children and Sensitive Individuals: Not recommended for use.
  • Liver and Kidney Disorders: Avoid prolonged use as it may strain detoxification pathways.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Warming and stimulating; supports digestion and menstrual health.
  • Ayurveda: Considered drying and warming; balances Kapha but may aggravate Pitta and Vata.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Clears dampness and cold stagnation, supports digestion and circulation.

Combinations

  • For Digestion: Combine with gentian and ginger.
  • For Parasite Expulsion: Combine with wormwood and black walnut.
  • For Insect Repellent Use: Combine with lavender and rosemary.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Aerial parts are collected in late summer when flowers are in full bloom.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried herb in airtight containers away from moisture and heat.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Tanacetum vulgare’s anthelmintic, antimicrobial, and insect-repelling properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Tansy remains a powerful herb in traditional medicine, particularly for digestive support, parasite cleansing, and insect repellent use. Due to its potency, it should be used with caution and in small amounts.