Description
Either local (from Fresh) OR
Source: Mountain Rose Herbs
Organic Kosher
Origin: Greece
COMMON NAME
Standardized: French tarragon
Other: estragon, tarragon
BOTANICAL NAME
Artemisia dracunculus L. Sativa
Plant Family: Asteraceae
OVERVIEW
Tarragon is an aromatic Eurasian perennial cultivated for its sweet, anise-like flavor. Its Latin name, dracunculus, means “little dragon” and is derived from the medieval belief that the shape of a plant reflected its uses (the Doctrine of Signatures). Because its roots appear serpentine, medieval herbalists regarded tarragon as a treatment for snakebite. Today tarragon is not widely used medicinally, but the fresh leaves and stems are used in cooking, and at least one master chef has declared that scrambled eggs with the right amount of tarragon are a bit of heaven. Tarragon imparts its flavor readily, and is one of the herbs often used in making flavored vinegars and oils. While dried tarragon is sometimes used as a seasoning, the drying loses much of the flavor of the herb. Instead, many herbalists recommend starting a plant from a cutting to keep inside throughout the winter.
PARTS USED
Dried leaf.
TYPICAL PREPARATIONS
As a spice in culinary dishes.
SUMMARY
While there are some ancient traditional medicinal uses for tarragon, its most common use is as a culinary herb. Used fresh, it imparts a spicy, minty licorice flavor to salads and egg dishes, as well as to cooked meats and poultry. It should not be used in soups, as the flavor is too strong. Because many insects dislike the smell and taste of tarragon, it can be useful as a companion plant to keep the garden pest-free.
PRECAUTIONS
No known precautions.
We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.