Herb: Tansy Mustard


Latin name: Descurainia pinnata


Synonyms: Sisymbrium canescens, Sophia halictorum, Sophia pinnata


Family: Cruciferae



Medicinal use of Tansy Mustard:

Diuretic, expectorant, poultice. The ground up seeds have been used in the treatment of stomach complaints. A poultice of the plant has been used to ease the pain of toothache. An infusion of the leaves has been used as a wash on sores.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Annual


Height:
60 cm
(2 feet)

Flowering:
June to
August

Habitat of the herb:

Most areas and situations, usually in dry soils.

Edible parts of Tansy Mustard:

Young leaves - cooked. A bitter flavour. Eaten as greens in the spring, they are said to have a salty flavour. The seedpods make an interesting mustard-flavoured nibble. Seed - raw or cooked. Used as a piäole. The seed has a mustard flavour and can be used to flavour soups or as a condiment with corn. The seed can also ground into a powder, mixed with cornmeal and used to make bread, or as a thickening for soups etc. In Mexico the seeds are made into a refreshing drink with lime juice, claret and syrup.

Propagation of the herb:

Seed - sow spring in situ.

Cultivation of Tansy Mustard:

Most areas and situations, usually in dry soils.

Known hazards of Descurainia pinnata:

The plant is said t be toxic to livestock, causing symptoms similar to selenium poisoning. Known as blind staggers or paralyzed tongue, the animals can become blind, wander aimlessly and lose the ability to swallow.

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.