Monday, August 9, 2010

Tarragon…

I have been using this herb a lot lately, it really enhances my mustard vinaigrettes!  This year we went for the French tarragon and were very successful growing it on our balcony!

Tarragon has a somewhat bittersweet flavor to it, almost resembling anise with that hint of licorice flavor to it. Tarragon is widely used as an herb in cooking, but also has a history of medicinal use. Because of its ability to numb the mouth, the ancient Greeks chewed tarragon leaves to treat toothaches. Tarragon was used during the Middle Ages as an antidote for poisonous snakebites. Tarragon has also been used as a digestive aid, mild sedative, and as a heart disease prevention aid. It also has a long history of treating stomach cramps and promoting the appetite.

It is known to help fight off fatigue and calm the nerves. Tarragon promotes the production of bile by the liver, which aids in digestion and helps speed the process of eliminating toxic waste in the body. Tarragon offers healing properties for the stomach and liver. People with high blood pressure can use tarragon as a salt substitute, which will of course help keep bloating at bay!

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