Fragrance

Tanacetum Vulgare Flower Extract

INCI: TANACETUM VULGARE FLOWER EXTRACT

Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

Also known as: Tanacetum Vulgare Flower Extract

A botanical fragrance ingredient derived from tansy flowers with potential antioxidant properties

Best For Skin Types

All

Addresses

Oxidative stress

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Tanacetum Vulgare Flower Extract?

Tanacetum vulgare flower extract is derived from the flowers of tansy, a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family native to Europe. In skincare formulations, it is primarily used as a fragrance component, contributing subtle floral notes to products.

The extract contains volatile compounds and sesquiterpene lactones, chemical constituents that give tansy its characteristic scent and contribute to its documented biological activity in research contexts.

How It Works

The plant extract contains sesquiterpene lactones and volatile monoterpenes that can interact with skin cells. Research suggests these compounds may neutralise free radicals through antioxidant mechanisms and potentially inhibit the growth of certain microorganisms on the skin surface.

However, most evidence for these effects comes from laboratory studies rather than clinical trials on human skin, so the practical benefit in finished skincare products at typical use concentrations remains unclear.

Clinical Evidence & References

Laboratory research indicates that tansy extracts possess antioxidant and antimicrobial activity in controlled settings. Studies have measured free radical scavenging capacity and tested the extract against various microorganisms with positive results.

It is important to note that most evidence derives from in vitro research rather than human clinical trials. The concentration, formulation type, and stability of the extract in actual skincare products can significantly influence whether these theoretical benefits translate to meaningful effects on skin. More research is needed to establish clinical efficacy in cosmetic application.

How to Use

Tanacetum vulgare flower extract is used primarily as a fragrance ingredient and is typically incorporated into formulations at low concentrations. As with any fragrance component, if you have sensitive skin or fragrance sensitivity, monitor your skin's response when first using a product containing this ingredient. It can be used as part of your regular skincare routine with other complementary actives.

Safety & Precautions

Generally recognised as safe in cosmetic use. However, the plant contains sesquiterpene lactones, which can trigger allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals, particularly those with a known sensitivity to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as ragweed or chamomile). Patch test before widespread use if you have known plant allergies.

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Part of a family

Tanacetum Vulgare Flower Extract is a variant of Tanacetum Vulgare Extract, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.

A botanical extract with antioxidant potential, though allergen risk requires careful consideration

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