Tarragon is an exceptionally unique herb, with its flavor being used for centuries because it doesn’t just add flavor to food but also is utilized for medicinal purposes. It is well known for its delicate anise-like flavor, and it is one of the staple herbs in French cuisine because it adds dimensions to sauces, poultry, and seafood. But experts say this aromatic plant does more than add a pleasant taste to your favorite dishes: It may have a number of health benefits, too. Improved digestion heads up the list, but experts also say it could affect sleep, inflammation, and more.
Here’s what experts say about tarragon’s health-boosting potential.
1. Improved Digestion
One of the most recognized health benefits of tarragon is its ability to aid digestion. Experts confirm that, traditionally, it has been employed as a herbal treatment for such indigestive ailments as bloated feelings, indigestion, and stomach cramps due to its contents like eugenol, which can excite bile production in the liver. This helps in the dissolution of dietary fats and, thus, helps reduce bloating, allowing smoother digestion.
As Dr. Laura Keller, a nutritionist that specializes in herbal remedies, says, “Tarragon acts as a mild digestive stimulant and is very helpful for people who experience sluggish digestion or minor gastrointestinal discomfort. By stimulating bile production, tarragon assists the digestive system in processing, thereby cutting down on bloating while helping in the absorption of nutrients.”
2. Blood Sugar Control
Several preliminary studies support the fact that tarragon may take part in blood sugar regulation. Indeed, active compound intake in tarragon enhances insulin sensitivity hence is able to control blood glucose levels effectively. Therefore, this herb could be useful for people suffering from type 2 diabetes or at risk of developing insulin resistance. Of course, more research has to be done on humans, but so far, the results are appealing.
As Sarah Wilson, a registered dietitian, says, “We can’t say that tarragon is the cure-all to fix blood sugar problems, but it’s exciting to see research that herbs like tarragon might help improve glucose control. As this herb may be easily combined into meals, it might be a natural way to help with all-around health, especially for people troubled by blood sugar.
3. Tarragon is rich in potent antioxidants
including phytochemicals that fight against oxidative stress throughout the body. Oxidative stress has been associated with many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Antioxidants such as flavonoids and coumarins found in tarragon neutralize free radicals, which damage cells.
According to Dr. Emily Collins, a researcher in herbal medicines, “Antioxidants are important to prevent the body from cellular damage. Antioxidant-rich herbs, such as tarragon, incorporated into one’s diet, may reduce disease susceptibility and improve health conditions in the long run.”
4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Another possible benefit to consuming tarragon includes its anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is linked to many chronic health conditions, such as arthritis, heart conditions, and even cancer. The bioactive compounds contained in tarragon, such as caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid, may decrease inflammation within the body. With that, it could reduce some of the pains and discomforts related to those conditions.
Dr. Collins supports this notion, “Herbs like tarragon intrinsically have anti-inflammatory compounds that would decrease chronic inflammation when taken regularly.” She says, “They should not be used as a substitute for medications but could be an alternative measure to eliminate or reduce inflammation of the body parts and diseases associated with it.”
5. Improved Sleep and Reduced Anxiety
Tarragon is said to possess mild sedative properties, which may promote better sleep and also cut anxiety. Some studies explain this by the action of the bioactive ingredients present in the plant on the nervous system, which shows a soothing action. This herb, therefore, can be useful for patients with insomnia and other stress-related disorders as a bedtime remedy or added in food just before dinner.
Holistic health expert Dr. Mark Hall provides insight: “Tarragon has been used in folk medicine for promoting calmness. The research in that direction is limited, but some people believe that it promotes relaxation, thus giving good sleep.”
6. Supports Heart Health
Some experts even recommend tarragon as a way to prevent heart diseases because it manages normal blood pressure. Tarragon contains potassium, a mineral which promotes normal balance of sodium in the body and maintains blood pressure at a healthy level. Its anti-inflammatory properties protect the cardiovascular system from damage related to chronic inflammation.
According to nutritionist Dr. Carla Morris, “The use of tarragon, being among the potassium-rich foods and herbs, plays a major role in heart health, mainly for those who are at risk of hypertension. If these herbs are used habitually, together with proper nutrition, there will be improved performance of the heart as a whole.”.
Traditionally, tarragon has been used as an appetite stimulant and is particularly useful for people who are convalescing after illness or surgery, or for individuals who have a loss of appetite related to stress or aging. Tarragon allows one to stir the senses and increase hunger, which in turn might help improve nutritional intake in those that do not eat enough.
“Tarragon can be helpful for those in states of difficulty eating due to lack of appetite,” Dr. Hall says. “A light sprinkle of tarragon on your meal will serve to build the appetite and delight in eating.”
Conclusion: A Herb for Flavor and Health
Indeed, tarragon has a whole line of health benefits-from enhanced digestion and blood sugar to heart health and a reduction of inflammation. While it isn’t a cure-all, adding tarragon to your diet as part of a balanced and nutritionally rich eating scheme can subtly but powerfully change your life. Whether sprinkled over a salad, added to a marinade, or used in a sauce, tarragon’s culinary versatility is rivaled only by its health benefits.
As experts continue researching the medicinal uses of herbs like tarragon, this tasty plant holds a place as one of the more valuable tools to improve both meals and health.
