Mexican tarragon extract | Tagetes lucida | 10x – 1 g

Mexican Tarragon Extract 10x is a concentrated botanical preparation made from Tagetes lucida, an aromatic herb with a long cultural history in Mexico and Central America. Also known as Mexican tarragon, pericón or hierba anís, this distinctive member of the marigold family has traditionally been valued for its fragrant, anise-like aroma and its culinary and ceremonial significance.

Each 1 g pack is supplied in hermetically sealed packaging to help maintain the quality and freshness of the extract.

About Mexican Tarragon (Tagetes lucida)

Tagetes lucida belongs to the Asteraceae family and is related to familiar marigold species. It is a perennial herb native to the highland regions of Mexico, Guatemala and other parts of Central America.

The plant generally grows to around 40–80 cm and produces narrow, aromatic leaves alongside small yellow to orange flowers. Its strong anise-like fragrance makes it particularly distinctive among Tagetes species.

In Mexico, the plant remains a familiar culinary and traditional herb and is known by several regional names, including pericón and hierba anís.

Traditional and Cultural History

Mexican tarragon has a particularly rich ethnobotanical history. The Aztecs referred to the plant as yauhtli and associated it with ceremonial practices and offerings dedicated to Tlaloc, the deity connected with rain and agriculture.

Historical accounts describe the herb being burned as incense during religious and agricultural ceremonies. It was also incorporated into traditional beverages and used as an aromatic culinary ingredient.

Beyond its ceremonial importance, Tagetes lucida has remained part of Mexican folk herbalism and regional cuisine. Its distinctive flavour has made it a traditional alternative to European tarragon and an ingredient in selected regional dishes and beverages.

Naturally Occurring Constituents

Mexican tarragon contains a range of naturally occurring botanical compounds, including:

• Methyl chavicol (estragole) — an aromatic compound responsible for much of the plant’s characteristic anise-like fragrance
• Quercetin and patuletin — flavonoid compounds found in Tagetes species
• Coumarin — a naturally occurring aromatic constituent
• Essential oils — including compounds such as beta-ocimene and linalool

The exact composition can vary depending on growing conditions, harvest time, plant material and extraction method.

10x Extraction

The 10x designation refers to the starting-material-to-extract ratio. Approximately 10 g of dried Tagetes lucida herb is used to produce 1 g of concentrated extract.

During extraction, soluble botanical constituents are separated from the original plant material and subsequently dried and milled into a fine powder. This results in a substantially more concentrated botanical preparation by weight than the original dried herb.

The 10x ratio describes the extraction process and does not mean that every individual constituent is present at exactly ten times its original concentration.

Traditional Culinary and Botanical Use

Mexican tarragon has traditionally been prepared as an aromatic herbal infusion or used as a culinary seasoning.

For a simple infusion, follow the manufacturer’s recommended serving instructions and mix the appropriate amount with hot water. The naturally aromatic flavour can be complemented with honey if desired.

The concentrated extract can also be used in very small quantities as a flavouring ingredient where appropriate, adding the plant’s characteristic anise-like profile to selected culinary preparations.

Historically, Tagetes lucida has also been used as incense in ceremonial settings. Any use as incense should take place in a well-ventilated environment and away from children, pets and flammable materials.

Pack Contents

Each package contains:

• 1 g Mexican Tarragon Extract 10x
• Botanical source: Tagetes lucida
• Concentrated botanical extract
• Hermetically sealed packaging

Storage and Safety

Store in a cool, dry and dark place, protected from direct sunlight, heat and moisture. Keep the packaging securely closed and out of reach of children.

Tagetes lucida naturally contains estragole. The European Medicines Agency has highlighted safety considerations surrounding exposure to estragole and recommends keeping exposure as low as practically achievable. For this reason, this concentrated extract should not be treated as an everyday food or beverage ingredient, and excessive or prolonged oral consumption should be avoided.

Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you take prescription medicines, have an existing medical condition or are unsure whether this concentrated botanical extract is suitable for you, consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

This product is a botanical preparation and is not a medicinal product. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and should not replace a varied and balanced diet.

Always check the laws and regulations applicable to Tagetes lucida and concentrated botanical extracts in your country before purchasing or using the product.