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Russian Tarragon

Also known as: Russian Tarragon, Estragon, Artemisia dracunculus L.

Overview

Artemisia dracunculus L., commonly known as Russian Tarragon or Estragon, is a perennial herb native to Eurasia. Traditionally used in culinary applications and folk medicine, it is gaining attention as a dietary supplement due to its rich content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and essential oils. Primary applications in the supplement industry revolve around its potential anti-hyperglycemic effects, modulation of creatine metabolism, anti-inflammatory properties, and neuroprotective potential. While research is emerging, it remains preliminary, with most evidence derived from small randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and preclinical studies. High-quality clinical trials and systematic reviews specifically on Russian Tarragon as a supplement ingredient are currently limited, necessitating further robust investigation to confirm its efficacy and safety.

Benefits

Russian Tarragon has shown several potential benefits, though the strength of evidence varies. Regarding creatine metabolism, one RCT (n=10) found that 500 mg of aqueous Russian Tarragon extract did not significantly enhance whole-body creatine retention, muscle creatine content, or anaerobic performance when co-ingested with creatine monohydrate over five days. However, another study suggested it might reduce plasma creatine levels after ingestion, indicating a possible influence on creatine uptake kinetics without clear performance benefits. For anti-hyperglycemic effects, preclinical studies suggest Russian Tarragon extracts may improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, potentially by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which promotes glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation. Clinical confirmation in humans is still needed. Traditional use and some experimental data support its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, indicating peripheral and central pain-relieving activity. Lastly, extracts have shown mild inhibitory activity against human monoamine oxidase A and B (hMAO-A and hMAO-B) in vitro, suggesting potential neuroprotective and antidepressant effects, though its activity is lower than standard inhibitors and requires further validation.

How it works

The proposed anti-hyperglycemic effects of Russian Tarragon are primarily attributed to the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key enzyme involved in cellular energy homeostasis. This activation can lead to improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced glucose uptake by cells, and increased fatty acid oxidation. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties are likely mediated by its rich profile of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, such as chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, luteolin, and quercetin. These compounds can scavenge free radicals, modulate inflammatory pathways, and interact with neurotransmitter systems. While some research suggests a potential influence on creatine uptake kinetics, the exact mechanisms by which Russian Tarragon might modulate creatine metabolism, such as affecting plasma clearance or transport, remain unclear. The observed nonselective inhibition of MAO enzymes is thought to be due to the synergistic action of multiple compounds within the extract.

Side effects

Russian Tarragon is generally considered safe when consumed in typical culinary amounts. However, clinical safety data specifically for supplement dosages are limited. In the small randomized controlled trials reviewed, no significant adverse effects were reported with the use of Russian Tarragon extracts. Despite this, as with many herbal supplements, there is a theoretical potential for mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as upset stomach or nausea, or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. These potential side effects are not well-documented in the current literature. Importantly, no serious drug interactions or contraindications have been definitively established or reported in the available scientific literature. Due to the limited research, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, those taking prescription medications, or pregnant/nursing women should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before using Russian Tarragon as a supplement.

Dosage

Clinical studies investigating Russian Tarragon extract have primarily utilized a dosage of 500 mg of an aqueous extract, administered twice daily. This specific dosage was used for a duration of five days in the context of creatine supplementation research. For other potential indications, such as blood sugar control or anti-inflammatory effects, there are currently no established minimum effective or maximum safe dosages due to a lack of sufficient clinical data. In studies examining its interaction with creatine, the extract was typically taken approximately 30 minutes prior to creatine ingestion to assess acute effects. Formulations can vary, but aqueous extracts are commonly employed in research settings. Without more extensive research, specific dosing recommendations for general use beyond the studied context cannot be definitively provided, and users should adhere to product label instructions or consult a healthcare professional.

FAQs

Does Russian Tarragon improve creatine uptake?

Current evidence from small clinical trials does not support a significant enhancement of muscle creatine retention or anaerobic performance when Russian Tarragon is combined with creatine supplementation.

Is it effective for blood sugar control?

Mechanistic studies suggest potential benefits for blood sugar control through AMPK activation, but robust clinical trials in humans are needed to confirm these effects.

Is Russian Tarragon safe to take?

Limited data from small studies suggest good tolerability at studied doses (e.g., 500 mg twice daily). However, larger and longer-term safety trials are required for comprehensive assessment.

How should Russian Tarragon be taken?

There is no broad consensus on optimal usage. Research studies have typically used 500 mg of an aqueous extract, sometimes taken shortly before creatine ingestion.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3313115/ – This study investigated the effects of Russian Tarragon on plasma creatine levels. It found that Russian Tarragon reduced plasma creatine levels post-ingestion compared to placebo, suggesting a possible influence on creatine uptake kinetics. However, it was a small, acute study without data on muscle creatine retention or performance.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3975968/ – This double-blind, randomized controlled crossover trial with 10 recreationally trained males found that 500 mg of Russian Tarragon extract taken twice daily for 5 days had no significant effect on whole-body creatine retention, muscle creatine content, or anaerobic performance when co-ingested with creatine. The study was of moderate quality but limited by its small sample size and short duration.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.653993/full – This review and in vitro analysis explored the neuroprotective potential of Russian Tarragon extracts. It reported that extracts showed mild inhibitory activity against human monoamine oxidase A and B (hMAO-A and hMAO-B), suggesting possible antidepressant and neuroprotective effects. However, these findings are preclinical and require clinical validation.