Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) has a long history of traditional use in European folk medicine, including as a remedy for external parasites such as scabies. Historical herbal texts from the Middle Ages and Early Modern period mention tansy preparations—often in the form of ointments, washes, or infusions—being applied to the skin to help treat “itch” or “scabious” conditions, which are now recognized as scabies. The rationale was likely based on the plant’s strong, aromatic compounds, including thujone and camphor, which were believed to repel or kill parasites.

However, there is little to no modern scientific evidence supporting the efficacy or safety of tansy for scabies treatment. No controlled clinical trials or robust pharmacological studies have been published to validate its effectiveness against the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. Moreover, tansy is considered toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation; thujone, one of its main constituents, is neurotoxic in high doses. As such, while tansy’s use is justified by tradition, it is not substantiated by scientific research, and modern medicine does not recommend it as a scabies treatment.

More about Tansy
More about Scabies

Other ingredients used for Scabies

Other health conditions supported by Tansy

Products containing Tansy