Tansy (Tanacetum parthenium)
Tansy (Tanacetum parthenium) is a member of the Compositae family, native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Traditionally, its flowers, leaves, and resin have been used for infusions, decoctions, and tinctures.
This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, bitter, and carminative actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, mediterranean herbal traditions, and ayurvedic medicine.
Quick Facts / Key Information
| Common Name | Tansy |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tanacetum parthenium |
| Plant Family | Compositae |
| Genus | Tanacetum |
| Species | parthenium |
| Native Range | Europe, Asia, North America |
| Plant Parts Used | Flowers, Leaves, Resin |
| Primary Medicinal Actions | Anti-Inflammatory, Bitter, Carminative |
| Primary Traditional Systems | European Herbal Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions, Ayurvedic Medicine |
| Historical Preparation Methods | Infusion, Decoction, Tincture |
Botanical Identity
- Scientific Name
- Tanacetum parthenium
- Common Name
- Tansy
- Synonyms / Alternative Names
- Common Tansy, Feverfew, Tanacetum
- Plant Family
- Compositae
- Genus
- Tanacetum
Botanical Description
- Growth Habit
- Perennial herbaceous plant.
- Height
- It typically grows to a height of 30 to 100 centimeters.
- Leaves
- Lateral, serrulate leaves with upper surface pale green and lower surface dark green, bearing prominent stomatal bands.
- Flowers
- Small yellow flowers arranged in dense flat-topped clusters, actinomorphic, with 4-5 narrow linear petals and 5-6 prominent yellow glandular hairs on the receptacle.
- Stems
- Erect, unbranched, glabrous, with opposite arrangement of leaves and prominent ribbing.
Traditional Uses / Historical Use
Traditional Systems
- European Herbal Medicine
- Mediterranean Herbal Traditions
- Ayurvedic Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods
- Infusion
- Decoction
- Tincture
- Oil Infusion
Medicinal Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Traditionally described as a cooling anti-inflammatory, in inflammation-focused discussions.
- Bitter
- As described in traditional systems, a gentle bitter, in appetite-focused contexts.
- Carminative
- In herbal texts, considered a mild carminative, in digestion-focused applications.
- Sedative
- In herbal literature, noted as a moderate sedative, in nervous system–related contexts.
Active Compounds
- Essential Oil
- Volatile plant-derived substances commonly present in leaves and flowers.
- Coumarin
- A group of secondary metabolites present in seeds, roots, and leaves.
- Flavonoid
- A group of naturally occurring compounds commonly present in many flowering plants.
- Phenolic Acid
- Naturally occurring phenolic compounds present in many plant species.
Modern Research Overview
Scientific literature concerning this plant spans multiple areas, including phytochemistry and laboratory research. Detailed analysis of published studies is not included at this time and will be added as part of future editorial expansion.
Safety & Contraindications
- General Precautions
- The use of this herb may warrant general caution in certain situations.
- Contraindications
- Some conditions have been cited as contraindications for the use of this herb.
- Allergies
- Reports indicate that this herb can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
- Drug Interactions
- There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb interacts with pharmaceutical drugs.
- Toxicity
- Toxic effects have been reported in association with the use of this herb.
- 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
- Plant parts are gently boiled in water to release soluble constituents.
- Poultice
- A topical preparation made by applying softened plant material externally.
- Tincture
- This method preserves plant compounds using an alcohol-based solution.
- Extract
- Non-alcoholic extracts provide a liquid form of plant constituents.
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 periodic dry conditions.
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.