withSimplicity | Updated July 17, 2023
Blue Tansy - SKIN CARE'S HOLY GRAIL INGREDIENT
What looks beautiful and delivers beautiful results? Blue Tansy.You’ve probably noticed a lot of blue moisturizers and serums on the store shelves recently. Well, it’s not a coincidence. Though it’s been around for a while, Blue Tansy Oil is becoming a staple ingredient used by estheticians, aromatherapists, and skincare manufacturers worldwide because of its beneficial properties.And we’re obsessed with it.
What is Blue Tansy?
Blue tansy, scientifically known as Tanacetum annuum, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Morocco and is also commonly found in some regions of Europe. Blue tansy is a small, herbaceous annual plant that typically grows up to 50 centimeters in height.
The plant's leaves are feathery and silver-gray in color, while the flowers are small and yellow when fresh. However, during the steam distillation process to extract the essential oil, the flowers release a blue-colored volatile oil due to the presence of chamazulene, giving it its distinctive blue appearance.
Blue tansy essential oil is highly valued for its potential therapeutic benefits and is used in various applications, including aromatherapy and skincare. It is known for its calming and soothing properties, and it is often used to support healthy skin and to promote relaxation.
Please note that blue tansy essential oil should be used with caution and diluted properly before use, as it is a potent oil. It is always recommended to consult a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare professional before using any essential oil.
Now, Blue Tansy should not be confused with the Tansy Flower (Tanacetum Vulgara), which is very toxic to humans. Best to steer clear of that one.
What Makes Blue Tansy Oil Blue?
Blue tansy essential oil is blue primarily due to the presence of a compound called chamazulene. Chamazulene is a natural chemical constituent that is formed during the steam distillation process of blue tansy flowers (Tanacetum annuum).
Fresh blue tansy flowers are actually yellow in color. However, during the distillation process, the flowers release a blue-colored volatile oil, which contains chamazulene. Chamazulene is not present in the fresh flowers but is formed through a chemical transformation of other constituents, such as matricine, during the distillation process.
Chamazulene is responsible for the blue color of the essential oil and is known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. It is a highly valued component in blue tansy essential oil, and its presence contributes to the oil's therapeutic benefits.
It's important to note that the blue color of blue tansy essential oil can vary in intensity, and it may appear greenish-blue or even deep blue depending on factors like the growing conditions of the plant, the distillation process, and the specific batch of oil.
What are the Benefits of Blue Tansy in Skincare?
Not only does Blue Tansy Oil smell amazing (we like to describe it as a warm, grounded citrus… if that makes any sense), but it’s been used for years in skin care for its calming and healing properties.
1. Anti-inflammatory + Antioxidant
Blue tansy essential oil contains chamazulene, which has notable anti-inflammatory properties. It can help calm and soothe the skin, making it beneficial for sensitive or irritated skin conditions. It's antioxidant properites can help protect the skin from free radicals and oxidative stress. Antioxidants are important for maintaining healthy skin and preventing premature aging.
2. Targets Fine Lines & Signs of Aging
Blue tansy essential oil is believed to support cell regeneration and promote a more youthful appearance. It may help improve the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and fine lines.
3. Creates a Calming Skincare Experience
Skincare is more than just rubbing oils and lotions on your face. It’s a full-body experience. When diffused or smelled, Blue Tansy has calming properties that regulate hormones and calm anxiety. (When you smell it, you’ll understand what we mean.)
Meet Our Blue Dew.
Now we can’t talk about Blue Tansy without plugging our favorite blue tansy moisturizer, Blue Dew. We handcraft it right here in our headquarters in VA using only natural, cruelty-free ingredients.