Origin: a Latin derivative
meaning "Gift of the Earth."
The Science of Blue Tansy
Article at a Glance
Blue Tansy essential oil is obtained from the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant Tanacetum annuum. The name Blue Tansy is actually a misnomer; the plant itself is a yellow-flowered Mediterranean herb native to Morocco. The oil of the Blue Tansy plant belongs to the same family as the chamomile oils, which includes Roman Chamomile and German Chamomile. In this context, it is no surprise that Blue Tansy is sometimes referred to as “Moroccan Blue Chamomile.”
Chamazulene
What blue tansy and German chamomile have in common is the presence of a compound called chamazulene. Chamazulene’s intense blue color is what gives them their hue. Interestingly enough, chamazulene is actually formed during steam distillation, which explains why the oils are blue but the plants they come from are not. A sesquiterpene compound called matricin, which is found naturally in the aerial parts of the plants, goes through a reaction when it is in the presence of water vapor at high temperatures. The reaction product is chamazulene, a sesquiterpene with a deep blue hue.
Blue Tansy is an oil with a relatively high chamazulene content. This means that it may have powerful soothing effects1. However, remember that with great power comes great responsibility. There is so much chamazulene in Blue Tansy that the oil can actually stain skin and surfaces blue, so it must be used carefully.
Myrcene
Aside from its chamazulene content, Blue Tansy oil is also unique because of its sabinene and myrcene content. Sabinene is a cyclic monoterpene known for its woody and spicy aroma. Experimental research also shows it may be soothing and help diminish the appearance of blemishes on the skin2.
Conclusion
Until convention 2017, Blue Tansy was offered only as an ingredient in Deep Blue®and various other blends. Blue Tansy is an excellent addition to the doTERRA collection of essential oils. Whether you add it to your skin care routine or simply diffuse it for the sweet aroma, this oil is sure to become a favorite.
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