History of uses

Tansy has a long history of use. 

It was first recorded as being cultivated by the ancient Greeks for medicinal purposes. In the 8th century AD it was grown in the herb gardens of Charlemagne and by Benedictine monks of the Swiss monastery of Saint Gall. Tansy was used to treat intestinal worms, rheumatism, digestive problems, fevers, sores, and to bring out measles.

Spices schnapps with Tansy

There is good reason for early spring trotting where nature wakes up again and many young plant shoots can be used as spice on your schnapps. Eg the Tansy. That blooms from July until October, but the "schnapps people" are mainly looking for the young leaf shoots in the spring, where leaves are rich in sugars and give the best taste for the schnapps.

How to make the drink

Pick or cut newly sprouted shoots of the plant and place them in a decanter or similar. Allow leaf shoots to draw for at least a week and then filter off.

The drink gains flavor when stored, and has a slightly pungent and bitter taste. The color turns golden with greenish tones.

What alcohol to use

The alcohol recommended for extraction is, for example, a pure vodka or a schnapps that is not seasoned too much. Also, try seasoning on gin, which can yield surprising flavor results.

This schnapps increases appetite.

Translation of Danish article