Historic uses of tansy

Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) has a strong scent and a long folk history across Europe and parts of Asia. People used it for many practical jobs around the house and farm before modern drugs and pesticides existed. The plant’s bitter leaves and oily flowers show up again and again in old recipes, remedies, and rituals.

What people used tansy for

One of the most common uses was as an insect repellent. Fresh sprigs were tucked into linens, stuffed into shoes, or hung in doorways to keep moths, fleas, and flies away. It was a cheap, easy way to protect stored clothes and food.

Tansy was also a folk medicine staple. People made teas, tinctures, and poultices from the leaves and flowers. Historically it was used as a digestive bitter after heavy meals, and as a traditional "vermifuge"—a remedy aimed at expelling intestinal worms. Women sometimes used it to encourage menstrual flow. Topically, crushed leaves were applied to sore muscles or joints as a warming compress.

Beyond home remedies, tansy appears in cultural and culinary roles. Medieval brewers used it in gruit mixtures to flavor beer before hops became common. In some places it was part of funeral customs, either scattered on burials or worn to mask odors. Farmers used it as a companion plant too—its aroma can deter certain pests and attract beneficial insects.

Safety and modern view

Heads up: tansy isn’t harmless. The plant contains thujone and other compounds that can cause nausea, dizziness, seizures, or worse if taken in high amounts. That’s why modern herbalists and regulators treat internal use with caution. Pregnant women should avoid it entirely—historically it was used to try to induce menstruation or labor, which can be dangerous.

Today, tansy’s place is mostly historical and ornamental. People still use it sparingly as an insect deterrent in gardens or in small amounts for historical cooking recreations, but it’s not recommended as a home treatment for illness. If you’re curious about using tansy or any herb, talk with a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider first. They can explain safe options and reliable alternatives.

If you’re studying herbal history or want natural ways to manage pests around the home, tansy is a fascinating plant to learn about. Just respect its power—old remedies often worked, but they could also be risky when used without care.