Tansy - Herb Uses

WARNING - This herb can cause MISCARRIAGE and should NOT be given to pregnant women. Tansy oil is highly TOXIC both internally and externally. Very small amounts can prove to be FATAL. Do NOT DRINK Tansy infusions, decoctions, or tinctures.

Culinary (eaten)

Young leaves are used to flavour cakes and puddings. Eating Tansy seeds is an effective remedy for expelling worms.

Infusion (like a tea)

Pour near-boiling water over the herb and let steep 5-10 minutes. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 500ml water. The Infusion must be used same day. This is the best method for leaves and flowers. Do NOT DRINK, for external use only.

Cold Infusion (called a Maceration, like a cold tea)

A Cold Infusion is recommended if the herb may be damaged by heating. Steep the herb in water for 12 hours or more, strain and use. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 500ml water. Do NOT DRINK, for external use only.

Decoction (like a broth)

Simmer the herb for 15-30 minutes and strain. A Decoction is the best method for bark, roots and rhizomes. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 500ml water. The Decoction must be used on the same day. Do NOT DRINK, for external use only.

Tincture

Using a strong clear alcohol (gin or vodka is ideal), steep the herb for 2 weeks or more, strain and use. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 400ml alcohol. Tinctures store very well. Do NOT DRINK, for external use only.

Poultice

A Poultice consists of a pulp or paste made by heating chopped fresh, dried, or powdered herbs with a little water. Spread the paste between two layers of gauze and apply (as hot as possible) externally to the affected area. Replace as necessary.

Compress

An alternative to a poultice, a Compress is made by soaking a clean cloth in a hot Infusion, Decoction, or diluted Tincture and applying externally to the affected area.

Wash

The herb can be used as a Wash by diluting an Infusion or Decoction, or adding a Tincture to a large quantity of water. Use Wash by applying externally to the affected area.

Tansy - Plant Information