Cineraria (Tanacetum cinerariifolium)
Cineraria (Tanacetum cinerariifolium) is a member of the Compositae family, native to Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and Southern Russia. Traditionally, its leaves, flowers, and resin have been used for infusions, decoctions, and oil infusions.
This herb is particularly valued for its bitter, anti-inflammatory, and carminative actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, mediterranean herbal traditions, and traditional chinese medicine.
Quick Facts / Key Information
| Common Name | Cineraria |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tanacetum cinerariifolium |
| Plant Family | Compositae |
| Genus | Tanacetum |
| Species | cinerariifolium |
| Native Range | Central Asia, Eastern Europe, Southern Russia |
| Plant Parts Used | Leaves, Flowers, Resin |
| Primary Medicinal Actions | Bitter, Anti-Inflammatory, Carminative |
| Primary Traditional Systems | European Herbal Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions, Traditional Chinese Medicine |
| Historical Preparation Methods | Infusion, Decoction, Oil Infusion |
Botanical Identity
- Scientific Name
- Tanacetum cinerariifolium
- Common Name
- Cineraria
- Synonyms / Alternative Names
- Blueweed, Tanacetum Cinerariifolium, Cineraria Leaf
- Plant Family
- Compositae
- Genus
- Tanacetum
Botanical Description
- Growth Habit
- Perennial herbaceous plant.
- Height
- It typically grows to a height of 30 to 80 centimeters.
- Leaves
- Broad leaves with upper surface grayish-green and lower surface whitish, featuring distinct stomatal bands along the midrib.
- Flowers
- Inflorescence consists of solitary flowers with actinomorphic symmetry, blue to violet petals with yellow centers, and five ovate lobes arranged in a radial pattern.
- Stems
- Cineraria has upright growth habit with alternate branching, smooth surface, and a cylindrical stem structure.
Traditional Uses / Historical Use
Traditional Systems
- European Herbal Medicine
- Mediterranean Herbal Traditions
Historical Preparation Methods
- Infusion
- Decoction
- Oil Infusion
- Tincture
Medicinal Actions
- Bitter
- Commonly referenced as a gentle bitter, in appetite-focused contexts.
- Anti-inflammatory
- Traditionally described as a soothing anti-inflammatory, for general calming applications.
- Carminative
- In herbal literature, noted as a moderate carminative, in digestion-focused applications.
- Tonic
- In herbal texts, considered a calming tonic, in general wellness contexts.
Active Compounds
- Essential Oil
- Naturally occurring plant oils composed primarily of volatile constituents.
- Terpenoid
- Naturally occurring metabolites widely distributed in leaves, flowers, and roots.
- Coumarin
- A class of aromatic organic compounds found in many plant species.
- Flavonoid
- Naturally occurring polyphenols that contribute to pigmentation and structural chemistry.
Modern Research Overview
Modern scientific investigation of this plant has focused on identifying its chemical constituents and examining their properties in controlled research settings. Comprehensive study summaries will be incorporated into this section as additional sources are reviewed.
Safety & Contraindications
- General Precautions
- Specific general precautions associated with this herb have not been well documented.
- Contraindications
- Reports outlining specific contraindications for this herb are limited.
- Allergies
- Reports of allergic reactions to this herb are not well documented in available sources.
- Drug Interactions
- Interactions with prescription medications have not been well documented.
- Toxicity
- Available information regarding the toxicity of this herb is limited.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
- Available information regarding use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is limited.
Preparation & Usage Methods
- Infusion
- Water is poured over plant material and allowed to steep before straining.
- Decoction
- Decoctions are made by heating plant material in water for an extended time.
- Poultice
- A topical preparation made by applying softened plant material externally.
- Infused Oil
- A preparation created by soaking plant parts in carrier oils.
- Capsule
- A preparation format using encapsulated plant powders.
Growing, Harvesting & Storage
Growing / Cultivation
- Soil
- Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
- Sunlight
- Thrives in full sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
- Watering
- Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates variable moisture levels.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herb for medicinal purposes.