Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Record

Tanacetum microphyllum

Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.

Enhanced precautions for this plant: Plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, to be avoided in case of known allergy to plants of this family (arnica, chamomile, yarrow...). Strongly discouraged during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potentially uterine-stimulating effects, as with other tansies. Internal use is not recommended without the advice of a healthcare professional, as the plant is poorly documented and may contain irritating or toxic compounds at high doses. Keep out of reach of children; do not use on damaged skin without advice from a practitioner.

Infused oil — Flowering aerial parts

Maceration oil for external use

Dried flowering tops are macerated for several weeks in a neutral vegetable oil, away from light, then filtered. This oil is traditionally used in gentle massage on painful areas. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Compress — Leaves and flowers

Soothing compress

A mild decoction of the aerial parts is prepared then left to cool; a cloth soaked in it is applied to the affected area for a few minutes. This application remains for external use only, on healthy skin. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Infusion — Dried leaves

Traditional infusion (occasional use)

A small amount of dried leaves is briefly infused in hot water. Due to the lack of precise data on this species, a professional should be consulted before any internal use. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

It is found in the wild in mountainous and Mediterranean areas of Southern Europe, particularly in Spain; it is found more rarely in specialized herbalist shops than its cousin, common tansy.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

Flowering tops are traditionally harvested in summer, during full bloom, in dry weather.

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