Oil properties: Tarragon oil has a herby, spicy, somewhat anise aroma.

Origin of tarragon oil: It is a perennial herb and thrives near rivers and streams and has a woody stem, reaching about 1 meter (3 feet) high. It has silvery-green leaves covered with silky, fine hairs and pale yellow flowers.

It was first called 'Estragon' and was introduced into Spain by the conquering Moors. The name is derived from the Arabic word ' Tharkhoum' and the Latin word 'Dracunculus' meaning 'little dragon' probably because of the way the root seems to coil up like a dragon.

The leaf is commonly used as a domestic herb and to make tarragon vinegar.

Extraction: Tarragon oil is extracted from the leaves and the flowering tops by steam distillation.

Therapeutic properties: The therapeutic properties of Tarragon oil are anti-rheumatic, aperitif, digestive, deodorant, emmenagogue, stimulant and vermifuge.

Chemical composition: The main chemical components are estragole (methyl chavicol), ocimene and phellandrene, cineol etc.

Precautions: Tarragon oil is non-irritant and non-sensitizing but can be moderately toxic due to the methyl chavicol in the oil, and should therefore be used in moderation and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Uses: Tarragon oil stimulates the appetite and has a pronounced effect on the sluggish digestive system.

It can be helpful for anorexia, dyspepsia, flatulence, hiccups, internal spasm and nervous indigestion, as well as helpful for menstrual pains and to regulate periods.

• Vapor therapy or used in a bath: In vapor therapy and diluted in the bath, tarragon oil can help with the digestive system and for menstrual pains.
• Blended massage oil: As a blended massage oil, tarragon oil can assist with the digestive and genito-urinary systems.

Tarragon oil blends well with: Although essential oils normally blend well together, it blends particularly well with carrot seed, lavender, lime and rosewood.