balsam herb n 1: tansy-scented Eurasian perennial herb with buttonlike yellow flowers; used as potherb or salad green and sometimes for potpourri or tea or flavoring; sometimes placed in genus Chrysanthemum [syn: {costmary}, {alecost}, {bible leaf}, {mint geranium}, {balsam herb}, {Tanacetum balsamita}, {Chrysanthemum balsamita}]