You’ve probably seen tarragon in fancy French recipes, but did you know that this herb is packed with health benefits? If you’re only using tarragon to season chicken or fish, you’re missing out on its powerful medicinal properties.
Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and essential oils that can help improve digestion, regulate blood sugar, support heart health, and even promote better sleep.
This herb has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and modern science is now backing up its incredible benefits.
#1. Improves Digestion and Reduces Bloating
Ever feel like your stomach is auditioning for a balloon festival? Tarragon can help! This herb contains compounds that stimulate digestive juices, helping break down food more efficiently.
Studies in The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry show that tarragon promotes bile production, which aids digestion and prevents bloating.
If you often feel sluggish after meals, adding a bit of tarragon to your diet might help you digest food faster and more comfortably.
Drinking tarragon tea after meals can help ease bloating and improve gut health.
#2. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar Levels
If your blood sugar is as unpredictable as a reality TV show, tarragon might help bring some balance.
Research in Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice found that tarragon extract improved insulin sensitivity in people with high blood sugar levels.
This means tarragon helps your body use sugar more efficiently, reducing the risk of energy crashes and sugar spikes. Adding fresh tarragon to your meals or drinking tarragon-infused water may help keep your blood sugar stable.
#3. Supports Heart Health and Circulation
Your heart works 24/7, so why not give it a little extra love? Tarragon is rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and improve circulation.
Studies suggest that the antioxidants in tarragon may reduce cholesterol buildup, lowering the risk of heart disease. Using tarragon in your daily diet can support better heart health over time.
#4. Promotes Better Sleep and Reduces Stress
If you toss and turn at night like a rotisserie chicken, tarragon might be your new bedtime buddy.
A study published in Phytomedicine found that tarragon contains compounds that act as mild sedatives, helping relax the nervous system. Its natural anti-stress properties make it a great herb for those struggling with insomnia or anxiety.
Drinking tarragon tea before bed or using tarragon essential oil in aromatherapy can help you relax and improve sleep quality.
#5. Fights Inflammation and Supports Joint Health
Inflammation is the root of many chronic diseases, including arthritis. Tarragon has natural anti-inflammatory compounds that may help.
The flavonoids in tarragon have been shown to reduce swelling and stiffness in joints. Studies in The Journal of Medicinal Food found that tarragon extract helped reduce inflammation markers in patients with joint pain.
Applying tarragon-infused oil to sore areas or drinking tarragon tea can help soothe inflammation naturally.
How to Use Tarragon for Maximum Health Benefits
1. Tarragon Tea (For Digestion, Sleep, and Stress Relief)
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon fresh or dried tarragon leaves
- 1 cup boiling water
- Honey or lemon (optional)
Instructions:
- First, add tarragon leaves to a teacup.
- Then, pour boiling water over them and let steep for 5–10 minutes.
- Strain and add honey or lemon for taste.
- Drink once or twice daily for digestive support and relaxation.
2. Fresh Tarragon in Cooking (For Blood Sugar and Heart Health)
You can sprinkle chopped fresh tarragon on salads, eggs, or roasted vegetables. Or, add tarragon to homemade dressings, marinades, and sauces. In addition, you can use it in soups and stews for extra flavor and health benefits.
3. Tarragon Essential Oil (For Muscle Pain and Sleep Support)
Mix a few drops of tarragon essential oil with coconut oil and massage onto sore muscles or joints.
Add 2–3 drops to a diffuser before bed for relaxation and better sleep.
Cautions and Precautions
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should limit tarragon, as it contains estragole, a compound that may have mild hormonal effects.
People on blood-thinning medications should consult a doctor, as tarragon may enhance blood circulation.
Avoid consuming large amounts of tarragon long-term, as excessive estragole intake may have potential health risks.
If you have any health conditions, always check with a healthcare provider before adding tarragon to your diet.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you have existing health conditions or take medications, consult a healthcare provider before using tarragon as a remedy.
Tarragon: The Tasty Herb with Health Benefits You Didn’t See Coming
