Dry and store wild herbs properly

Dry and store wild herbs properly

There is real potential in the world of wild herbs that many of us only discover at second glance. These green treasures from nature not only provide aromatic flavors for our cuisine, but also healing properties for the body and mind. But how do we bring the abundance and power of fresh herbs into our pantries? The key is proper drying and storage.

In our article, we delve deep into the botanical basics to explore the different drying processes that every plant lover should know. We will then show you how to ideally store the dried wild herbs - because quality and effectiveness are everything here. Finally, we give practical tips on how you can use these aromatic dried herbs in your cooking recipes and in natural medicine. Let's uncover the secrets of how to use wild herbs correctly and benefit from the wonders of nature!

The botanical basics of wild herbs and their specific drying processes

Wild herbs represent a valuable resource for nutrition, healing and as a taste enrichment. Botanically speaking, they belong to different families, and the species often overlap, which makes identification and use easier. Well-known wild herbs include dandelion, nettle and groundweed. These plants are not only ecologically important, but also rich in vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals that have healing properties.

The specific drying methods vary depending on the type of wild herb. In general, three main methods can be distinguished:

• Lufttrocknung: Geeignet für viele Kräuterarten. Dabei werden die Pflanzen in einem gut belüfteten und dunklen Raum aufgehängt oder ausgebreitet. Die Temperatur sollte idealerweise zwischen 18 und 24 °C liegen, um Qualität zu erhalten.
• Ofentrocknung: Hierbei wird ein Ofen bei niedriger Temperatur (40-60 °C) genutzt. Diese Methode ist schneller, kann jedoch den Gehalt an empfindlichen Inhaltsstoffen wie ätherischen Ölen reduzieren.
• Friertrocknung: Besonders wirksam für empfindliche Kräuter. Bei dieser Methode gefriert das Kraut zuerst und wird dann unter Vakuum getrocknet, was die Struktur und Inhaltsstoffe wahrt.

The choice of drying method has a significant impact on the quality and effectiveness of the herbs. Air drying retains the full aroma, while oven drying often results in a loss of taste. Freeze drying, on the other hand, is considered the optimal method for maintaining nutrient density.

Table 1 shows the ideal drying times and temperatures for common wild herbs:

Proper drying is crucial to preserve the activating and healing ingredients of the wild herbs. The antioxidants, flavonoids and vitamins contained in plants are sensitive to light, heat and moisture. The selection of the drying process therefore plays a role not only in the technology, but also in the philosophy of dealing with nature and its resources.

Optimal storage conditions for dried wild herbs to maintain quality and effectiveness

Storing dried wild herbs is crucial to maintaining their quality and effectiveness. In order to preserve the positive properties of the herbs, several factors must be taken into account:

• Luftfeuchtigkeit: Eine relative Luftfeuchtigkeit von unter 60 % ist ideal. Zu hohe Feuchtigkeit kann Schimmelbildung verursachen und die Qualität der Kräuter beeinträchtigen.
• Lichtverhältnisse: Direkte Sonneneinstrahlung sollte vermieden werden. Kräuter sollten in lichtdichten Behältern oder an einem dunklen Ort gelagert werden, um die Zersetzung von wichtigen Inhaltsstoffen zu verhindern.
• Temperatur: Ein kühler Lagerort, idealerweise zwischen 15 °C und 25 °C, sorgt dafür, dass die ätherischen Öle stabil bleiben. Hohe Temperaturen können die Aromastoffe negativ beeinflussen.
• Luftzirkulation: Eine gute Luftzirkulation ist wichtig, um die Lagerbedingungen zu optimieren. Geschlossene Behälter sollten ausreichend Platz für den Luftaustausch bieten.

Another important aspect is the container in which the herbs are stored. Preferably, they should be stored in airtight, light-protected containers such as glass or ceramic jars. Plastic containers can have a negative impact on the flavorings and absorb odors, which should also be avoided.

The shelf life of dried wild herbs varies depending on the plant. In general, it can be said that they have a shelf life of between 6 and 24 months under optimal storage conditions. Some essential herbs like thyme or rosemary retain their potency longer than delicate herbs like basil or chives. It is advisable to regularly check the condition of the stored herbs and add fresh supplies if necessary.

In summary, it can be said that observing the optimal storage conditions is crucial to ensure the quality and effectiveness of dried wild herbs. These findings are based on various scientific studies and findings from botany.

Practical uses of dried wild herbs in cooking and natural medicine

Dried wild herbs have a wide range of uses in cooking and natural medicine, and their benefits range from flavor enrichment to therapeutic properties. The use of these herbs has a long tradition spanning centuries and based on ancient healing methods and culinary practices.

Dried wild herbs are often used as spices in the kitchen. Not only do they add flavor to dishes, but they also enhance the flavors of the ingredients. The most common herbs include:

• Thymian: Ideal für Fleischgerichte und Suppen.
• Rosmarin: Passt gut zu Kartoffeln und gerüstetem Gemüse.
• Basilikum: Ein fester Bestandteil in italienischen Rezepten, besonders in Saucen.
• Salbei: Perfekt für Füllungen und herzhafte Saucen.

The use of dried wild herbs is particularly promising for natural medicine. They are often rich in phytochemicals that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting properties. The most popular herbs include:

• Echinacea: Stärkt das Immunsystem und hilft bei Erkältungen.
• Kamille: Beruhigt den Magen und hilft bei Schlafstörungen.
• Hibiskus: Senkt den Blutdruck und hat eine positive Wirkung auf das Herz.

The use of dried wild herbs in teas or as tinctures is widespread. Many also use them in baths or as essential oils to take advantage of their healing properties. The preparation is often uncomplicated and allows the herbs to be flexibly integrated into everyday life.

The following table shows some common dried wild herbs, their uses and their specific properties:

The targeted use of dried wild herbs also has a positive impact on health. Studies show that regular consumption of certain herbs can promote overall well-being. These herbs can not only be useful in the kitchen, but can also play an important role in supporting health and preventing illness.

In summary, the correct drying and storage of wild herbs plays a crucial role in preserving their botanical properties as well as their therapeutic effectiveness. The differentiated drying processes, which are specifically tailored to the needs of different plants, ensure optimal quality. In addition, the storage conditions are crucial for the shelf life and use of the dried herbs in cooking and natural medicine. By taking an informed approach to these processes, we can sustainably utilize and appreciate the multitude of health benefits and culinary opportunities that wild herbs offer.

Sources and further literature

References

• Weber, H. & Schmidt, P. (2003). Wildkräuter und ihre Verwendung. Stuttgart: Ulmer Verlag.
• Kägi, A. (2009). Wildkräuter für die Küche – Eine praktische Anleitung. Düsseldorf: Bechtermünz Verlag.

Studies

• Meyer, K., & Müller, D. (2018). Einfluss von Trocknungsverfahren auf die Inhaltsstoffe von Wildkräutern. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 12(15), 123-130.
• Schaefer, N. (2015). Die Bedeutung von Lichtverhältnissen beim Trocknen von Kräutern. Phytotherapie, 36(4), 208-214.

Further reading

• Schütz, C. (2011). Heilpflanzen: Das umfassende Handbuch. Berlin: Kosmos Verlag.
• Weidenfeld, I. (2016). Kräuterwissen: Ein Praxisbuch. München: Gräfe und Unzer Verlag.