Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Certified Organic Tansy Extract

Also known as: Tansy, common tansy, Certified Organic Tansy Extract, Tanacetum vulgare

Overview

Tanacetum vulgare, commonly known as tansy, is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, traditionally valued for its aromatic and medicinal properties. The extract is typically derived from the dried leaves and flowering tops of the plant. It is primarily recognized for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities, with some research suggesting potential anticancer effects. Traditionally, it has also been used for digestive and circulatory support. Tansy extract is characterized by a rich profile of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and essential oils, with camphor being a dominant component. While preclinical studies, including in vitro and animal models, support various biological activities, high-quality human clinical trials are limited, making the evidence quality variable. Most current data stems from preclinical research, with a notable absence of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans.

Benefits

Tansy extract exhibits several promising benefits, primarily supported by preclinical research. Its strong antioxidant activity is attributed to phenolic compounds like 3,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,5-O-DCQA), which has been found in higher concentrations in in vitro cultured roots, demonstrating potential to scavenge reactive oxygen species. Antimicrobial effects, particularly antifungal activity, are linked to essential oil components such as camphor, which can disrupt microbial membranes. Furthermore, in vitro studies suggest potential anticancer activity, with ethyl acetate extracts showing selective cytotoxicity towards tumor cells. Secondary effects observed in preclinical models include hepatoprotective, antimutagenic, and immunomodulatory activities, also associated with 3,5-O-DCQA. Some animal models indicate an improvement in pancreatic function in diabetic conditions. However, it is crucial to note that robust human clinical data confirming these benefits, their effect sizes, or clinical significance in specific populations are currently lacking. The majority of evidence comes from in vitro or animal studies, and no high-quality randomized controlled trials with human clinical endpoints have been identified.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action for tansy extract's antioxidant effects involves the scavenging of reactive oxygen species by its phenolic compounds, particularly dicaffeoylquinic acids. Its antimicrobial properties are likely due to essential oil constituents, such as camphor, trans-chrysantenyl acetate, and cis-verbenol, which are believed to disrupt microbial cell membranes. The potential anticancer activity observed in vitro may involve selective cytotoxicity towards tumor cells, though the exact pathways are not fully elucidated. Immunomodulatory and hepatoprotective effects are possibly mediated through the modulation of oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways. Additionally, 3,5-O-DCQA has shown potential to inhibit the HIV-1 integrase enzyme, thereby interfering with viral replication. Absorption and bioavailability data for tansy extract in humans are not well characterized, limiting a complete understanding of its systemic effects.

Side effects

While tansy essential oil has shown low toxicity in animal studies (LD50 ~14.9 g/kg i.p. in Wistar rats), common side effects in humans are not well documented due to limited clinical research. Traditionally, caution has been advised regarding its use during pregnancy due to potential toxicity and abortifacient properties. Uncommon and rare side effects are also not well characterized. Tansy extract may have potential drug interactions, notably additive sedative effects when combined with alcohol, and therefore concurrent use should be avoided. Contraindications include pregnancy, allergy to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds), and caution is advised during nursing or when taking other medications. Safety in children and pregnant or nursing women has not been established, and its use is generally discouraged in these populations. Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those on medications metabolized by the liver should exercise extreme caution and consult a healthcare professional before use.

Dosage

There is no standardized dosing for tansy extract established from human clinical trials. Traditional use often involves tinctures, with recommendations suggesting 20-30 drops (approximately 1 mL) diluted in water or juice, taken up to four times daily. The concentration of active compounds can vary significantly between different extracts, with organic alcohol-based extracts commonly used for their preservation properties and efficiency in extracting active compounds. Information regarding absorption factors and cofactors that might influence the efficacy of tansy extract is not well studied. Alcohol-based tinctures may enhance the extraction and potentially the bioavailability of certain active compounds. Due to the lack of clinical data, it is crucial to adhere to product-specific instructions and consult a healthcare professional, especially given the potential for toxicity with higher doses or prolonged use.

FAQs

Is Certified Organic Tansy Extract safe?

Generally considered safe in traditional doses, but avoid during pregnancy and consult healthcare providers if on medications or nursing due to potential toxicity and drug interactions.

How long until effects are seen?

There is no clinical data on the time course of effects in humans. Preclinical studies suggest that repeated use may be necessary for observing antioxidant or metabolic benefits.

Can it be combined with alcohol?

Caution is advised as tansy extract may have additive sedative effects when combined with alcohol, increasing the risk of drowsiness and impaired coordination.

What are the main benefits?

Based on preclinical evidence, the main benefits include strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, with some indications of potential anticancer activity.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7691073/ – This study investigated the chemical composition of in vitro cultured Tansy roots, finding significantly higher concentrations of 3,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,5-O-DCQA) compared to wild plants. The research highlighted the antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and immunomodulatory potential of these compounds, suggesting that in vitro cultivation could enhance the medicinal value of tansy.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10457739/ – This research characterized the chemical composition of essential oil from wild tansy, identifying a camphor chemotype with strong antioxidant and antifungal activity. The study also included animal toxicity tests, showing no toxicity in rats at high doses, providing some safety data for the essential oil component.
https://herbalterra.com/tansy-aex – This source provides general information on traditional uses and safety considerations for tansy extract, including warnings against use during pregnancy and potential interactions with alcohol. It reflects common herbalist advice regarding dosage and contraindications.
https://hawaiipharm.com/tansy-alc-extract – This commercial source describes the form and preparation of tansy alcohol extracts, emphasizing their organic nature and traditional use. It provides context on how such extracts are typically manufactured and preserved for supplement use.
https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/3be2/efbb2f4a19eec2c992cb51b3a6f87d228205.pdf – This study focused on the morphological and chemical assessment of wild tansy plants, providing detailed phytochemical profiling. While not directly clinical, it supports the presence of various bioactive compounds in the plant, contributing to the understanding of its potential therapeutic properties.