How to use tansy for fleas? - briefly
Apply a tincture or diluted essential oil of tansy to the pet’s coat, avoiding eyes and mucous membranes, and repeat every 3–5 days until fleas disappear; alternatively, sprinkle dried, crushed tansy leaves in bedding and carpet areas, then vacuum after 24 hours.
How to use tansy for fleas? - in detail
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) contains volatile oils that repel and kill flea larvae. To employ it effectively, follow a step‑by‑step protocol that addresses preparation, application, and safety.
First, harvest fresh tops and leaves when the plant is in full bloom. Rinse thoroughly, pat dry, and chop coarsely. For a liquid extract, combine one part plant material with five parts 70 % ethanol in a sealed glass jar. Let the mixture steep for 10–14 days, shaking once daily. After steeping, filter through cheesecloth or a fine mesh, then store the tincture in amber bottles away from light.
For direct use on pets, dilute the tincture to a 1 % solution (approximately 10 ml tincture per liter of water). Apply the diluted spray to the animal’s coat, avoiding eyes, nose, and open wounds. Use a fine mist to ensure even coverage, then comb through the fur to distribute the oil. Repeat every 48 hours for two weeks, then weekly for maintenance.
To treat the environment, prepare a 2 % spray (20 ml tincture per liter of water) and mist carpets, bedding, and cracks in flooring. Allow surfaces to dry completely before allowing pets back into the area. Reapply the spray weekly during peak flea season.
If a dry application is preferred, dry the harvested plant material in a well‑ventilated area at low temperature (below 40 °C) until brittle. Grind the dried herb to a fine powder and sprinkle a thin layer on pet bedding, under furniture, and in outdoor resting spots. Replace the powder every 5–7 days to maintain potency.
Safety considerations: Tansy contains thujone, a neurotoxic compound. Limit exposure by adhering to the recommended dilution ratios and avoiding prolonged skin contact. Do not use on pregnant animals, young kittens, or dogs with known sensitivities. Conduct a patch test on a small skin area before full application; observe for irritation over 30 minutes.
Cleanup: Wash any tools, containers, and clothing that have contacted undiluted tincture with soap and water. Dispose of spent plant material in a sealed bag to prevent accidental ingestion by wildlife.
By preparing a properly diluted tincture, applying it systematically to both animal and habitat, and observing safety guidelines, tansy can serve as a natural, effective component of flea management.