Description
Tansy essential oil is extracted from Tanadetum vulgare (a.k.a. Chrysanthemum vulgare and C. tanacetum) from the Asreraceae (Compositae) family. It is also called bachelors button and scented fern.
Origin Of Tansy Oil
Tansy is a perenial native to Europe which grows about 3 feet high. It has a smooth stem, dark green ferny leaves, and clusters of small, round yellow flowers. It has a very strong aroma and the gypsies regarded tansy as a "cure-all." It was used to treat colds, fevers, dyspepsia, to expell worms and to prevent miscarriage.
Tansy oil is high in thujone, a poison that can cause convulsions, emesis and uterine bleeding. Death is usually the result of respiratory arrest and organ degeneration.
Precautions
NEVER USE IN AROMATHERAPY! CAN CAUSE CONVULSIONS AND DEATH IN SMALL AMOUNTS!