Papaya - a world class meat tenderizer, natural digestive aid, prevents ulcers, and also a soft contact lense cleaner.Healing with Tarragon
Tarragon is no wonder herb, but it deserves a place in herbal Healing. Its active component is its oil; however, drying largely destroys it, so either fresh or frozen leaves or comparatively large amounts of dried leaves must be used.
Anesthetic - Tarragon oil contains an anesthetic chemical, eugenol, which is the major constituent of anesthetic clove oil, supporting its age-old use for toothache. Tarragon provides only temporary relief of oral pain, however. If toothache persists, consult a dentist.
Infection Prevention - Like many culinary herbs, tarragon oil fights disease-causing bacteria in the test tube. For garden first aid, press some fresh crushed tarragon leaves onto wounds on the way to washing and bandaging them.
Intriguing Possibilities - Tarragon oil contains a chemical (rutin) that strengthens capillary walls. Animal studies show rutin helps prevent the artery-narrowing plaque deposits closely associated with heart disease and some strokes. Tarragon’s impact on plaque prevention in human arteries is a matter of conjecture, but it just might help.
An animal study published in the lournal of the National Cancer Institute suggests rutin also has some antitumor activity.
Rx for Tarragon
For temporary relief of oral pain, chew fresh leaves as needed.
For garden first aid, apply fresh, crushed leaves to the affected area.
For a pleasant. licorice-flavored infusion that may help in the prevention of heart disease, use I to 2 teaspoons of fresh or frozen herb per cup of boiling water. Steep 10 to 15 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups a day.
In a tincture, use ½ to 1 teaspoon up to three times a day. Medicinal doses of tarragon should not be given to children under age 2. For older children and people over 65, start with low-strength preparations and increase strength if necessary.