Uses of Tansy
Answered by: Christine Dennis
Question from: Andres
Posted on: June 06, 2008

What medicinal purpose does this herb serve?

Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) has historically been used to rid the body of worms and has been strongly contraindicated during pregnancy because of its uterine stimulating effects. Tansy is a very bitter and strongly aromatic plant and has generally fallen out of popular use in modern times due to risk of toxicity from some of the volatile oils.

I personally really like this plant and use it my practice. A few of the actions of tansy are as an antispasmodic, carminative and that it is referred to as an emmenagogue - initiates and promotes menstrual flow and therefore commonly mistakingly called an abortifacient. However, one needs to really understand what emmenagogue means and that is it quite simply stimulates and moves the blood in the uterus and area. As such, tansy is a fabulous remedy for women who suffer from pelvic and uterine pain, congestion and stagnation. A few common symptoms of such a state are severe menstrual cramping, heaviness, dark menstrual blood, period migraines and scanty periods. Due to the extremely bitter taste of tansy, it is also helpful in stimulating digestive and liver function which also helps to improve elimination and reduce, thus harmonize, excess hormones that can be leading to the pelvic congestion as well.

Tansy is not a plant to be taken long term nor should it be used as a simple rather with other herbs. Due to the potential toxicity of this plant, it is best used under supervision of a registered herbalist.

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