The discovery and history of tansy
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) is a plant with a long history. Originally native to Europe and Asia, it was already used in ancient Greece and Rome. Hippocrates and Dioscorides, two important physicians of antiquity, wrote about the healing powers. It later found its way into medieval medicine, where it was used to treat a variety of diseases. The plant grew wild in forests and fields and was quickly recognized as a valuable remedy.
Dosage forms and dosage
Tansy can be taken in various forms, e.g. as a tea, tincture, powder or essential oil. Each of these forms has its own areas of application and dosages:
- Tea: To make a tansy tea, pour 250 ml of boiling water over about 2 grams of dried flowers and leave to infuse for 10 minutes. This amount corresponds to approximately one teaspoon. It is recommended not to drink more than two cups a day.
- Tincture: For a tincture, the fresh or dried flowers are prepared in alcohol. The usual dosage is 10-15 drops, which can be taken up to three times a day.
- Powder: The dried powder can be filled into capsules and taken. The recommended dose is 500 mg to 1 g daily.
Essential oil: The essential oil should only be used diluted, about 1-2 drops in a carrier oil. Internal use is not recommended due to possible toxicity.
Tansy: healing effects and areas of application
It has a broad spectrum of healing effects. The most important are
- Digestive complaints: It is traditionally used for digestive complaints such as flatulence, cramps and diarrhea. Its antispasmodic and antimicrobial properties help to soothe the gastrointestinal tract and fight harmful bacteria.
- Worm infestation: One of the best-known uses is to treat worm infestations. The plant contains substances that can kill parasites and remove them from the body.
- Fever and infections: It is also used to treat fevers and infections. Its anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties make it a valuable remedy for colds and flu.
- Rheumatism and arthritis: Thanks to its anti-inflammatory active ingredients, it can also help to relieve rheumatism and arthritis.
Effect on the body
Tansy works through its bioactive ingredients, including thujone, camphor and borneol. These compounds have a strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect. Thujone, a powerful terpene, is known for its ability to stimulate the central nervous system, which promotes muscle relaxation and relieves cramps.
When should you take tansy?
It can be taken primarily for digestive disorders, infections or parasite infestations. It can also have a supportive effect in inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. However, it is important to consult a doctor or alternative practitioner before taking it in order to avoid possible side effects.
Contraindications and warnings
Tansy is not suitable for everyone. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid tansy, as thujone is toxic in large quantities and can lead to miscarriages. People with liver or kidney disease should also be careful, as the plant can impair the function of these organs. Its use is also not recommended for children.
Food supplements and medicinal plants
Other medicinal plants and dietary supplements can be taken to support the healing effect of tansy. These include
- Ginger: Promotes digestion and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
- Garlic: Has a strong antimicrobial effect and supports the immune system.
- Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Foods with a high content of tansy active ingredients
In nature, the active ingredients of tansy are only found in the plant itself. There are no foods that contain similar active ingredients in significant quantities. Nevertheless, a diet rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods can support general health and complement the effects of tansy.
Tansy: Possible side effects
Side effects can occur when taking tansy, especially if the recommended dosage is exceeded. Possible side effects include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and headaches
- Skin rash and allergic reactions
- Long-term or excessive use can lead to serious health problems such as liver damage.
Overdose and its consequences
An overdose of tansy can lead to serious health problems. Thujone, which is neurotoxic in high doses, can cause convulsions, kidney damage and even death. If an overdose is suspected, medical help should be sought immediately.
Tansy: use in naturopathy
In naturopathy, tansy is mainly used as a worm remedy (anthelmintic) and for digestive disorders. In folk medicine, it is also used to treat fever and inflammation. However, it should always be used under expert guidance to ensure safety.
Alternative uses and modern research
Modern research continues to study tansy to better understand its potential benefits and applications. Some of the most interesting areas of research include
- Antimicrobial activity: studies have shown that tansy has strong antimicrobial properties against a variety of bacteria and fungi. This property could lead to the development of new antibiotics or antifungals in the future.
- Antioxidant properties: Tansy contains various antioxidant compounds that help to neutralize free radicals and thus prevent cell damage. This could be particularly important for the prevention of age-related diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.
- Cancer research: Preliminary studies suggest that certain compounds in tansy may inhibit the growth of cancer cells. However, further research is needed to confirm and validate this potential application.
Diet and lifestyle
Although tansy is a powerful medicinal plant, a healthy diet and lifestyle can support its effects. Foods rich in antioxidants, fiber and anti-inflammatory substances can help boost the immune system and promote overall health. These include
- Berries (e.g. blueberries, raspberries)
- Green leafy vegetables (e.g. spinach, kale)
- Nuts and seeds (e.g. almonds, chia seeds)
- Whole grain products (e.g. oats, quinoa)
A balanced diet combined with regular exercise and sufficient sleep can significantly improve health and reduce the need for medicinal plants and supplements.
Integrative medicine and tansy
In integrative medicine, which combines conventional medicine with alternative therapies, tansy is sometimes used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions who can benefit from the versatile healing properties of tansy. Examples include
- Chronic digestive disorders: Here, tansy can be used in combination with a healthy diet and probiotics to rebalance the intestinal flora.
- Chronic inflammation: For conditions such as arthritis, tansy can be used in conjunction with anti-inflammatory diets and herbs such as turmeric and ginger.
Long-term safety and regular monitoring
While occasional use of tansy can be safe, it is important to monitor long-term safety. Regular blood tests and medical check-ups can help to identify any potential negative effects at an early stage. At the first sign of side effects, use should be stopped immediately and a doctor consulted.
Summary
Tansy is an effective medicinal plant with a wide range of uses, from relieving digestive problems to fighting infections. Its effect on the body is based on bioactive ingredients that have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antispasmodic effects. However, it should always be used with caution and under medical supervision, especially due to the potential toxicity of thujone.
Important points:
- Thujone is one of the main ingredients of tansy and can be toxic if overdosed.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women and people with liver or kidney disease should avoid tansy.
- A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle can support the effects of tansy.
Tansy remains a valuable supplement in naturopathy, but as with any remedy, education and caution are important.
