Scientific name: Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa

Common name: French Tarragon

Scientific name: Artemisia dracunculus var. inodora

Common name: Russian Tarragon

Family: Asteraceae

 

Introduction

The Artemisia genus is one of the largest and most diverse genera within the Asteraceae family, comprising over 500 species of herbaceous plants and shrubs distributed mainly in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, particularly Asia, Europe, and North America. The genus is characterized by its aromatic leaves, often finely divided, and its bioactive essential oils that have been widely used in traditional medicine, culinary practices, and modern pharmacology. Artemisia species are known for their adaptability to dry, semi-arid climates and often play ecological roles in steppe and desert ecosystems.

 

Artemisia darcunculus

Two main varieties are recognized: French tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa) and Russian tarragon (A. dracunculus var. inodora). French tarragon is a compact, herbaceous perennial plant that rarely exceeds 80 cm in height, with narrow, smooth, and dark green leaves. It is typically sterile and does not produce viable seeds, which means it is propagated vegetatively through root division or cuttings. In contrast, Russian tarragon is taller, bushier, and more robust, with coarser and lighter green leaves. It produces viable seeds and is sexually reproductive, making it easier to grow from seed in various climates.

French tarragon is known for its potent, sweet, and anise-like scent due to high concentrations of estragole (methyl chavicol), which comprises up to 80% of its essential oil content. This makes it highly prized in culinary and medicinal applications. In contrast, Russian tarragon contains little to no estragole and instead has compounds like elemicin and ocimenes, which lack the desirable aromatic intensity, giving it a bland or slightly bitter profile.

 

Essential Oil Quality

The essential oil composition of Artemisia dracunculus varies significantly between different chemotypes and geographical regions, especially between the French and Russian varieties. Artemisia dracunculus essential oil from Western Asia reveals chemical profile rich in estragole (methyl chavicol)—typically constituting 58–85% of the oil, making it highly valued for culinary and medicinal uses. Other notable constituents include limonene, terpinolene, (E)-β-ocimene, methyl eugenol and α-pinene, with variations attributed to geographic origin, genotype, and environmental factors such as light intensity, soil salinity, and water stress.

The following sections explore the key properties and applications of the major compounds found in this essential oil:

1. Estragole (Methyl Chavicol): It is a phenylpropanoid compound and the primary constituent in most tarragon chemotypes, contributing to its characteristic sweet, anise-like aroma. It exhibits potent antimicrobial, antifungal, and spasmolytic activities, which support its traditional use in treating digestive issues and muscle spasms. Estragole is commonly used as a flavoring agent in liqueurs, candy, and sauces, and also in perfumes and personal care products due to its aromatic profile.
2. Limonene: This compound is a monocyclic monoterpene with a strong citrus fragrance and is found in minor amounts in tarragon essential oil. It is widely appreciated for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties. Limonene has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing inflammation, scavenging free radicals, and inducing apoptosis in tumor cells, particularly in breast and colon cancer models. Clinically, it has been explored for use in managing gastric reflux, gallstones, and as a skin penetration enhancer in drug delivery. Industrially, limonene is valued in green chemistry as a natural solvent and is heavily used in cleaning products, cosmetics, and air fresheners. Its excellent safety profile and low toxicity make it a versatile compound in multiple applications.
3. Terpinolene: It is a monoterpene with a distinctive piney, woody, and herbal scent, present in low concentrations in tarragon oil. Pharmacologically, it is known for its antioxidant, antifungal, and sedative effects. It has shown free radical scavenging activity and may inhibit lipid peroxidation, which contributes to its protective effects against oxidative stress. Studies also indicate antiproliferative effects on certain cancer cell lines, including glioblastoma and breast cancer, suggesting potential as an adjunct in cancer therapy. Terpinolene is used in fragrance formulations, soaps, and mosquito repellents, and has gained popularity in aromatherapy for its calming properties. It is also a minor cannabinoid-related terpene in cannabis with interest in neurological applications.
4. (E)-β-Ocimene: This compound is an acyclic monoterpene with a pleasant, sweet-floral aroma that contributes to the fresh scent of tarragon essential oil. This compound plays a significant ecological role in plant–insect interactions, acting as a semiochemical to attract pollinators or deter herbivores. In pharmacological contexts, (E)-β-ocimene has demonstrated antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory activity, particularly through interference with microbial cell walls and inflammatory signaling. It is commonly used in perfumes, deodorants, and food flavoring agents due to its light and uplifting fragrance. Though less studied than some other terpenes, ocimene’s multifunctional bioactivity and natural origin make it a valuable compound in natural health and cosmetic formulations.
5. Methyl Eugenol: It is a methoxyallylbenzene structurally similar to eugenol (found in clove oil) and imparts a clove-like, spicy aroma to tarragon essential oil. It is known for its potent antimicrobial, antifungal, insect attractant, and anesthetic properties. Methyl eugenol is especially effective in attracting certain species of fruit flies (Bactrocera spp.), making it useful in integrated pest management. It also has a history of use in flavorings and perfumes, but toxicological studies have raised concerns about its carcinogenic potential, particularly after long-term exposure in animal models. This has led to regulatory limitations in its use in food and cosmetics in some regions. Nevertheless, it continues to be a compound of interest for pest control and pharmaceutical applications in controlled environments.
6. α-Pinene: It is a bicyclic monoterpene with a fresh, pine-like aroma, found in many coniferous plants and herbs including tarragon. It is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator, and antimicrobial effects. α-Pinene has been shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes like COX-2, and its bronchodilatory action supports its traditional use in herbal asthma and bronchitis remedies. It also appears to protect cognitive function by inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholine, which makes it a candidate for research into Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, α-pinene exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, including against resistant bacteria such as MRSA. Its applications span from aromatherapy, where it promotes alertness and mental clarity, to eco-friendly cleaners, insect repellents, and phytomedicines.

 

Applications and Benefits in Various Industries

1. Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Industry

Tarragon essential oil is highly valued in traditional and modern medicine for its antimicrobial, antispasmodic, and digestive-enhancing properties. Its active compounds like estragole, methyl eugenol, and α-pinene contribute to reducing muscle spasms, alleviating gastrointestinal discomfort, and acting as mild anesthetics. The oil also exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a candidate for managing oxidative stress-related conditions and inflammation. Due to its calming properties, it is sometimes used in aromatherapy to ease anxiety and promote sleep. However, its use in therapeutic formulations must be closely monitored due to regulatory concerns over potential carcinogens such as estragole and methyl eugenol.

 

2. Food and Beverage Industry

In the culinary world, tarragon essential oil is a prized flavoring agent, especially in French cuisine. It imparts a distinctive sweet, anise-like taste, primarily due to estragole, and is used to flavor vinegars, mustards, salad dressings, sauces, and liqueurs. Its natural origin and strong aromatic profile make it a preferred alternative to synthetic additives. Beyond flavor, its antimicrobial properties help extend the shelf life of certain food products. Still, food-grade applications are restricted to minimal concentrations due to the safety regulations associated with estragole and methyl eugenol content.

 

3. Cosmetic and Fragrance Industry

Tarragon essential oil is used in the cosmetic and perfumery sectors for its refreshing, sweet, and herbaceous aroma. It is incorporated into soaps, body lotions, deodorants, colognes, and perfumes, offering not only fragrance but also mild antibacterial and antifungal effects. Its natural terpenes such as limonene and α-pinene also act as skin penetration enhancers, potentially improving the efficacy of cosmetic formulations. Additionally, it is used in natural skincare products for soothing irritation and as a botanical alternative to chemical preservatives.

 

4. Agriculture and Pest Control

In agriculture, tarragon essential oil shows promise as a natural biopesticide. Compounds like methyl eugenol act as insect attractants in traps, aiding in eco-friendly pest management. Its antifungal and antibacterial activity also suggests potential in controlling plant pathogens. Using essential oils in pest control reduces dependency on synthetic pesticides, making it a sustainable alternative in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.

 

5. Nutraceutical and Functional Food Products

The health-promoting bioactive compounds in tarragon oil have led to its use in nutraceutical formulations. It is marketed in low doses as part of digestive tonics, herbal supplements, and functional beverages to aid digestion, reduce bloating, and support immune health. Its antioxidant components can help in protecting cells from oxidative damage, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases. However, its inclusion in oral supplements is subject to strict dose regulation and labeling due to its bioactive strength and potential toxicity in excess.

 

6. Aromatherapy and Wellness

Tarragon essential oil is utilized in aromatherapy for its ability to relax muscles, ease stress, and improve sleep quality. The combination of soothing compounds like terpinolene and estragole creates a calming environment when diffused. It may also aid in respiratory support when inhaled, especially in blends with eucalyptus or pine oils. Its use in massage oils and balms is also popular due to its antispasmodic action, providing relief for sore muscles and menstrual cramps.

 

7. Veterinary and Animal Care

Though less common, tarragon essential oil is being explored for use in veterinary medicine, especially in natural dewormers and wound care solutions for animals. Its antimicrobial and antiparasitic effects suggest potential in developing eco-friendly treatments for livestock and pets. However, further toxicological studies are needed to confirm safe usage levels in different species.

 

 

Selected references:

• Behbahani, B. A., Shahidi, F., Yazdi, F. T., Mortazavi, S. A., & Mohebbi, M. (2017). Antioxidant activity and antimicrobial effect of tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) extract and chemical composition of its essential oil. Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization, 11, 847-863.
• Chaleshtori, R. S., Rokni, N., Razavilar, V., & Kopaei, M. R. (2013). The evaluation of the antibacterial and antioxidant activity of Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) essential oil and its chemical composition. Jundishapur J. Microbiol, 6(9), 1-35.
• Karimi, A., Hadian, J., Farzaneh, M., & Khadivi-Khub, A. (2015). Phenotypic diversity and volatile composition of Iranian Artemisia dracunculus. Industrial Crops and Products, 65, 315-323.
• Naghizadeh, S., Rafiee-Dastjerdi, H., Naseri, B., Golizadeh, A., & Esmaielpour, B. (2019). Insecticidal activity of essential oils from Artemisia absinthium L., Artemisia dracunculus L. and Achillea millefolium L. against Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae). Journal of Crop Protection, 8(4), 479-489.
• Sayyah, M., Nadjafnia, L., & Kamalinejad, M. (2004). Anticonvulsant activity and chemical composition of Artemisia dracunculus L. essential oil. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 94(2-3), 283-287.