Tarragon is a perennial herb in the sunflower family. Its botanical name is dracunculus which means little dragon. It is a sweet, aromatic herb with a note of licorice flavor. I really like the flavor and smell of this herb. It is a flavor that people either love or hate. When using it in cooking, use cautiously if you don’t know the palate of the individuals who may be eating it. There are two common varieties: French and Russian. French is the flavorful variety of the two.
Tarragon is native to Asia, specifically Mongolia and Siberia.
- In the 13th century, it was brought to Europe by invading Mongols. It was kept in a shoe to prevent tired feet on long journeys, used to cleanse the breath, and as a treatment for insomnia. The Arabs were the first to use the herb in cooking in the 13th century.
- In the 15th century, cultivation began in Europe where it was used as a vegetable seasoning. It was still used for inducing sleep and as a breath sweetener.
- In a publication by Pliny the Elder, Naturalis Historia (published in approximately AD 79), it was recommended to carry a branch of tarragon with you as a way to protect against a snake or dragon. Tarragon was used to treat snake bites.
- In the 16th century, the colonists brought tarragon to America where it was used as a tea infusion to treat diarrhea, colds, headaches, and the pains that accompany childbirth.
Health Benefits
There are many health benefits attributed to tarragon both from the past and in this modern day.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) uses tarragon as a protector and strengthener of the liver.
- Antibacterial/antimicrobial: it is helpful for fighting pathogenic microorganisms.
- Anti-parasitic: Tarragon has been proven as an effective treatment for uncomplicated malaria. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises its use as the first step in the treatment of basic malaria.
- Antioxidants are high, making it beneficial in reducing inflammation.
- Gastrointestinal system is supported by consuming tarragon.
- Diabetes: Tarragon was used as an herbal treatment for diabetes. In a study involving diabetic mice, consuming tarragon for 9 days reduced the desire to overeat and alleviated excessive thirst in these mice.
Tarragon is considered safe when consumed in normal amounts. However, using essential oils of tarragon should be used with caution as very high doses can cause liver toxicity.
Storage
When purchasing tarragon, fresh sprigs should have a firm stem and the leaves should be without blackening, yellowing, or wilting. Tarragon can be stored fresh in the fridge by placing the stems in a glass of water. They can last for weeks like this. The leaves can be placed in ice cube trays, add water, and freeze. They will last 3 to 5 months stored like this. The cubes can then be added to soups or stews. Tarragon can also be stored in vinegar: fill a jar with tarragon leaves, cover with vinegar, and store in the fridge for up to 6 months.
Tarragon leaves can be dried also. This can be done by using a dehydrator. Just make sure the leaves are thoroughly dried before storing; otherwise, there will be a chance of mold developing. Once dried, store in a tightly closed glass container in a cool, dark place for up to six months.
Uses
Tarragon is especially good with fish and seafood, but can work equally well with eggs, poultry, vegetables, or in salad dressings. Tarragon is the herb that gives the French sauce called Béarnaise its characteristic flavor. When adding to dishes it is important to note that heat greatly intensifies the flavor of tarragon for both fresh and dried. It is also one of the herbs found in Fines herbes mixture; this is a combination of equal parts tarragon, parsley, chives, and chervil; this is a French blend used in their dishes.
Tarragon can be a great herb to add flavor and health benefits to your meals. Do you love or hate tarragon? What is your favorite way to use tarragon?
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Heather
Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link, your costs will be the same but Chronicles in Health will receive a small commission. This helps cover some of the costs for this site. I appreciate your support!
Free 20-minute Phone Consultation
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
