Tansy common, Tanacetum vulgare
Tanacetum vulgare (Chrysanthemum vulgare)
Tansy (Common), Bitter buttons, Scented Fern
Asteraceae
History and Origin
Common tansy is a vigorous plant native to Eurasia now widely distributed in North America and often considered as a weed. Yet, it is strongly scented and offers a wide range of uses. As an example, in Europe, the leaf is commonly used as an aromatic for eggs and omelettes. Tansy also plays a role in the European medicinal heritage, traditionally used to get rid of worms, colds and flu, dyspepsia and cramp pains. The hydrosol is used to keep the complexion pale and the bruised leaves employed as a cure for scabies,
bruises, sprains and rheumatisms. The Amerindians notably use it as an analgesic, contraceptive, tonic, antiparasitic and anti-abortive (wearing the leaves around the waist or in the shoes). Interestingly, a tansy liquid can be sprayed on your garden plants to prevent or treat rust and powdery mildew or get rid of parasites like the white fly and aphids.Energetic and Emotional Effect
| Distilled part |
Aerial Part |
| Extraction |
Steam distillation |
| Main components |
ß-thujone, camphor, germacrene-D |
| Essential Oil’s Characteristics |
Transparent yellow liquid with a warm, spicy and herbaceous smell. |
| Properties |
According to its chemical complexion, Common tansy essential oil is tonic, anticatarrhal,
mucolytic+, expectorant, anthelminthic +++, anti-parasitic+++, anti-inflammatory,
antispasmodic, emmenagogue++ and antifungal++. |
| Uses among health professionals |
It is mainly used to treat intestinal worms+++, external parasites (scabies, louse, fleas) and warts. Since tansy oil contains neurotoxic components, it must be used with great precaution when consumed internally. |
| Energetic and Emotional Effect |
Common tansy is an energetic protection oil as can indicate its therapeutic properties. |
| Chromatography typical |
Tanacetum vulgare |
Perfumery
Tansy is sometimes comprised in herbaceous perfumes. Besides, it can be used as a fixing agent.
Aromatic
Tansy can be used as a condiment in cooking and was used to prepare alcoholic beverages.Safety Data
Because of its high thujone content (neurotoxic and abortive), tansy essential oil has to be avoided in babies, children and pregnant women. This oil contains ketones and must be used carefully.References
La Flore Laurentienne, The Illustraded Encyclopedia of Essential Oils and Native American Ethnobotany.
Discharge
Aliksir strongly recommends that you consult with a physician or aromatherapist. It is important to inform yourself concerning contraindications or incompatibilities with other substances. Essential oils are powerful, and they must be used according to the physiological doses.