Bachelor’s Buttons

TANSY – Bachelor’s Buttons

Botanical name: Tanecetum vulgare or Chrysanthemum vulgare

Family: Compositae

Parts used: Flowers, leaves and roots

Tansy is a decorative perennial plant which grows to about a meter in height and has dark green finely divided feathery leaves and small yellow button-shaped flowers which grow in umbles; it has camphorish scent. A native of northern Europe, it has become quite widely cultivated in other parts of the world as a decorative garden plant. Accustomed to waste places in the world it is tolerant of less than perfect garden conditions and will seed freely. The root is strong and quick spreading and can be easily divided. Once a popular medicinal plant it is now seldom used as modern knowledge decreed that the leaves could be toxic particularly when used by pregnant women.

CULINARY USE

The leaves have a ginger-like taste and can be used as a flavouring for savoury dishes, soups and stews.

MEDICINAL USE

Soothing, insecticide, disinfectant.

A poultice made from bruised leaves will ease pain of sprains and bruises.

COSMETIC USE

Tansy tea can be made form the leaves to make a good face-wash for acne sufferers. It has an exfoliant ability by reason of the hormone it contains can peel off dead layer of skin so give a fresher cleaner look to the complexion. Always use a small quantity to begin with – some people react more strongly than others.

HOUSEHOLD USE

Tansy hung in the kitchen and larder will keep away flies. In the wardrobe it will keep away silver fish, fleas, and moths. Liberally strewn in kennels and pet basket it will keep pets free from fleas. Rub it will into their coats too, to make the best of the tanecitin oil it contains.

IN THE GARDEN

Grown under fruit trees it will repel pests. Rub the leaves between your fingers as you pass to release the scent. Add the plant to your compost for it is a useful plant that contains potassium and other minerals.

WARNING NOTE: As always be cautious about using herbs. Pregnant women and small children and pets should use with caution. Do not take in place of proper medical advice.

I hope everyone is having a good day or evening where ever you are.