Where does tarragon come from?
Tarragon is a herbaceous plant native to Central Asia that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is well known in cooking and for its many phytotherapeutic properties.
From its Latin name Artemisia dracunculus, due to its roots in the shape of small dragons. It likes moist soils and reaches 80 cm to 1 m in height. Its aerial parts are harvested for their health benefits.
In Antiquity, it was a remedy for snakebites, but also an ally in the fight against cholera and the plague. It would also be a powerful aphrodisiac. Nowadays, digestion, sleep, and anxiety are some of the areas for which tarragon is sought in herbal medicine.
What are the properties of tarragon?
Tarragon is a valuable ally in the fight against digestive problems (intestinal spasms, constipation, slow intestinal transit, aerophagia, bloating) by stimulating the secretion of gastric juice. It is also beneficial for stimulating the appetite and soothing sore throats. It also helps fight insomnia, stress, anxiety. It draws its therapeutic benefits from its richness in active ingredients, in tarragon, we find:
- There vitamin C, contributes to the strengthening of the immune system, in particular by helping with wound healing and by producing antibodies.
- Vitamin B9 or folic acid, as in chives and parsley, tarragon contains this essential vitamin during pregnancy, as it is essential for the formation of the nervous system. It also plays a role in the proper functioning of the immune system.
- Vitamin K, it is involved in the construction of bones and cells. It is also naturally anti-inflammatory and protects cardiovascular health.
- The iron, this mineral is essential for the transport of oxygen and the formation of red blood cells in the blood. It also plays a role in the production of new cells, hormones and neurotransmitters.
- Flavonoids which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and stimulating properties on the immune system.
- This aromatic herb also contains coumarina chemical compound of the family of benzopyrones having a soothing effect in people who are anxious, stressed or depressed.
- Finally, its content estragol gives it antispasmodic properties.
How to consume tarragon?
It is advisable to consume tarragon fresh or frozen, in this way it retains all its benefits. Indeed, part of the nutritional qualities leave with drying.
- For internal use, as an aromatic herb, in infusion or decoction. Tarragon is a precious health ally, in infusion, it relieves people suffering from stomach cramps or toothaches. It is an antispasmodic, an anti-stress which also promotes sleep. Its antioxidants fight against free radicals and cellular aging and thus participate in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. It could even limit the symptoms in case of diabetes.
- Tarragon is also used externally, in the form of massage based on essential oil. These massages can relieve dermatological problems such as eczema, hives, but also menstrual pain, renal colic, muscle pain, joint pain or back pain (lumbago). It participates in the stimulation of blood circulation.
How to store tarragon?
Tarragon is a fragile aromatic plantshe takes care that 2 Or 3 days in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator. For it to keep better, it must first be rolled up in a damp cloth or paper towel.
- You can also keep the tarragon stems in a glass of water, as for fresh flowers. Leaves should only be removed from the stem when ready to use, to retain all their flavor.
- Another trick is to freeze it: wash the leaves and dry them. Then chop the tarragon, and place it in ice cube trays and cover with water. The ice cubes obtained can then be kept for several days.
- You can also dip a sprig of tarragon in a bottle of vinegar or oil.
What are the contraindications of tarragon?
Its content of vitamin K gives it clotting properties, so people taking blood thinners should not consume tarragon in large amounts.
Tarragon in the form of essential oil should not be taken by pregnant women, breastfeeding women or children under 8 years old.
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