Artemisia dracunculus
Artemisia genus contains over 500 species and is one of the largest Astraceae (Compositae) family genera which widely distributed in the temperate zones of Europe, Asia and North America. These plants observed in various shapes include perennial, biennial and annual herbs or small shrubs.
This genus general morphological features includes alternate leaves, small capitula, with racemouse, paniculate or capitate inflorescence, rarely solitary. Phyllaries in few rows, sometimes hirsute; florets all tubular; with small, dry, indehiscent fruit[1].
Tarragon is a perennial herb or small shrub with 120–150 cm tall, with slender branches. The leaves are lanceolate, 2–8 cm long and 2–10 mm wide, glossy green, with an entire margin. The flowers arranged in small capitula 2–4 mm diameter, each capitulum containing up to 40 yellow or greenish-yellow florets. The seeds are achenes 1.5 mm in length[2].
Tarragon’s common names include Tarkhun (Arabic, Russian), ai hao (Mandarin), estragoa (Dutch), dragon (Dutch, Swedish), estragon (French, German, Italian, Norwegian, Russian), tarragon (Hebrew), estragon (Spanish), targone (Italian), esutoragon (Japanese), and estragao (Portugese)[3].
Traditionally tarragon leaves were used as an antiepileptic, laxative, antispasmodic, antidiabetic, anticoagulant and carminative. the root as a reduce excessive flow blooding during the menstrual cycle and to aid in difficult labor[4, 5].
A.dracunculus is rich in terpenoids as well as caffeoylquinic acids, sterols, acetylenes, flavonoids and coumarins.
Russian tarragon and French tarragon are the two best known regional "varieties" of A. dracunculus. Russian verity major components include terpinen-4-ol, sabinene and elemicin, while estragole and β-ocimene (3.0 -5.3%) is the predominant compound of “French” tarragon. major components of the essential oil differ significantly depending on the origin of the plants[6-8].
**This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.
Chemical composition (%) some of Artemisia dracunculus essential oil from Europea and Asia
|
|
Italian |
Iran |
French |
Russian |
|
Terpinene-4-ol |
trace |
trace |
trace |
10-40 |
|
Sabinene |
trace |
trace |
trace |
10-30 |
|
Elemicin |
trace |
1-3 |
trace |
20-50 |
|
Estragole |
50-70 |
up to 40 |
up to 70 |
up to 3 |
|
β-ocimene |
smaller than 5 |
1-5 |
up to 10 |
5-10 |
|
trans- Anethole* |
30- 50 |
5-10 |
5-10 |
trace |
|
Methyl eugenol |
trace |
3-5 |
1-5 |
up to 10 |
* Observed in the EOs from plants grown in the hilly region of Italy (between Emily and Tuscany)
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.
References
1- M. Willcox, G. Bodeker, G. Bourdy, V. Dhingra, J. Falquet, J. F. Ferreira, B. Graz, H.-M. Hirt, E. Hsu and P. M. de Magalhães, Traditional medicinal plants and malaria 2004, 4, 43.
2- K. S. Bora and A. Sharma, Pharmaceutical biology 2011, 49, 101.
3- S. Raghavan, 'Handbook of spices, seasonings, and flavorings', CRC press, 2006.
4- D. Obolskiy, I. Pischel, B. Feistel, N. Glotov and M. Heinrich, Journal of agricultural and food chemistry 2011, 59, 11367.
5- H. Ekiert, J. Świątkowska, E. Knut, P. Klin, A. Rzepiela, M. Tomczyk and A. Szopa, Frontiers in Pharmacology 2021, 12, 653993.
6- T. D. Bhutia and K. M. Valant-Vetschera, Natural Product Communications 2008, 3, 1934578X0800300811.
7- R. Piccaglia, M. Marotti, E. Giovanelli, S. G. Deans and E. Eaglesham, Industrial crops and Products 1993, 2, 47.
8- D. Fraternale, G. Flamini and D. Ricci, Natural Product Communications 2015, 10, 1934578X1501000839.
