Tansy, this anti-tick plant !

Do you know the Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) ? It is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, renowned for its repellent properties, especially against ticks, those small parasites responsible for the transmission of diseases. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of Tansy, its use as a natural tick repellent, and the precautions to take when using it.

A very popular tick-repellent plant !

Tansy is an aromatic plant that can reach a height of 60 to 150 cm. It has dark green leaves, upright stems, and yellow flowers in capitula. It is native to Europe and Asia and typically grows in meadows, roadside edges, and gardens. Tansy is known for its strong odor and its repellent power against ticks. The chemical compounds present in the plant, particularly terpenes, are responsible for this repellent action. When the leaves of Tansy are crushed or bruised, terpenes are released, emitting an odor that repels ticks. This makes it an interesting natural repellent for those who wish to avoid tick bites.

How to use Tansy as a repellent?

Although Tansy can be effective against ticks, it is important to take certain precautions when using it. Some individuals may be sensitive to Tansy and develop a skin reaction. Before using the plant as a repellent, it is recommended to perform a skin patch test by applying a small amount to a small area of the skin and monitoring for any adverse reaction. Lastly, as with any repellent, it is advised to use Tansy in moderation and avoid applying it to mucous membranes, eyes, or open wounds.

Here are two ways to use Tansy as a repellent against ticks:

Infusion : Prepare an infusion by boiling water and adding dried Tansy leaves. Let it steep for about 15 minutes, then strain. Allow the liquid to cool and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray it on clothing before going out to areas at risk of ticks.
Maceration : Place fresh Tansy leaves in a vegetable oil (such as olive oil) and let it macerate for several weeks. Filter the mixture and use the oil as a repellent by applying it to exposed skin.

Tansy is well-known for its repellent properties against ticks. Its strong odor and active chemical compounds make it an interesting choice for those seeking natural alternatives to chemical repellents. By combining additional preventive measures, such as wearing long clothing and thorough inspection after exposure to tick-prone areas, you can minimize the risk of tick bites and the diseases they may transmit.