How to use tansy against fleas? - briefly
Make a concentrated infusion of dried tansy leaves, cool it, dilute with water to a sprayable strength, and apply to the pet’s coat while avoiding eyes and mucous membranes. Repeat the treatment every few days and maintain regular grooming to keep fleas at bay.
How to use tansy against fleas? - in detail
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) contains compounds that repel and kill fleas. Effective application requires preparation, safe handling, and consistent treatment of both the animal and its environment.
First, create a concentrated tincture. Combine 1 part dried tansy leaves with 5 parts 70 % ethanol. Seal the mixture in a dark glass container for 2 weeks, shaking daily. After steeping, filter through cheesecloth and store the liquid in a amber bottle.
Second, apply the tincture to pets. Dilute 10 ml of the tincture in 90 ml of water. Use a spray bottle to mist the fur, avoiding eyes, nose, and mouth. Repeat every 48 hours for two weeks, then switch to weekly applications.
Third, treat the living area. Mix 30 ml of the tinction with 1 liter of warm water. Mop floors, scrub carpets, and wipe bedding with the solution. Allow surfaces to air‑dry. Reapply the solution twice a week for the first month, then once weekly.
Fourth, prepare a dry powder for spot treatment. Grind dried tansy foliage to a fine powder. Sprinkle a thin layer in pet sleeping areas, under furniture, and in cracks where fleas hide. Leave for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly. Repeat the process monthly.
Safety precautions:
- Wear gloves and eye protection while handling ethanol extracts.
- Test a small skin area on the animal before full application to detect irritation.
- Keep tincture out of reach of children and other pets.
By following these steps—tincture preparation, direct pet treatment, environmental sanitation, and targeted powder application—tansy can be employed as a natural flea control method. Regular monitoring of flea activity and adjusting frequency of applications will maintain effectiveness.