Herbal Supplements For A Healthier Life

Botanical & Identity

Botanical Name

Tanacetum vulgare

Common Names

Tansy, Bitter Buttons, Cow Bitter, Golden Buttons

Plant Family

Asteraceae

Part Used

Aerial parts (primarily flowers and leaves)

Taste Profile

Bitter, aromatic

Energetics

Warming, drying
Tansy

Summary & Classification

Short Summary

Tansy is a pungent, aromatic herb historically used as a vermifuge, insect repellent, and bitter digestive tonic. While effective in small doses, it contains toxic compounds and should be used with caution.

Herb Actions

bitter tonic, emmenagogue

Herbal Category

antiparasitic herb, digestive herb

Medicine System

western, european folk medicine

Active Ingredients

Thujone, camphor, flavonoids, tannins, essential oils
.

Chemistry & Effectiveness

Active Ingredients

Mechanism of Action

Thujone is a neurotoxin in high doses; acts on the central nervous system and has anthelmintic and insecticidal properties. Bitters stimulate digestive secretions.

Modern Applications

Used in natural insect repellents, parasite cleanses (rarely), and as a bitter tonic. Considered unsafe for internal use without professional guidance.

Traditional Uses & Preparation

Traditional Uses

Historically used for intestinal worms, menstrual regulation, lice, fleas, and embalming.

Preparation & Usage

Traditionally brewed as a tea or used externally in poultices or insect-repellent washes. Now primarily used in essential oil or dried form externally.

Recommended Dosage

Internal use not recommended. External use: dilute essential oil or use in sachets or infused oil.

Safety & Warnings

Contraindications

Not for internal use without strict supervision. Avoid in epilepsy, liver disease, or chronic illness.

Drug Interactions

May interact with anticonvulsants, sedatives, or hepatotoxic drugs.

Pregnancy & Lactation

use only under professional supervision.

Side Effects

Nausea, dizziness, liver toxicity, seizures (especially with thujone overdose).

Scientific & Source Info

Scientific References

– Newall, C.A. et al. (1996). Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. – Lahlou, M. (2004). Essential oils and neurological disorders.

Sourcing Notes

Wildcrafted or cultivated from clean, thujone-monitored sources; often used dried or in essential oil form.

Product Linkage

Used In Products

Candida tincture

Candida Tincture

Price range: R209.00 through R212.43
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