Harvesting and storing medicinal herbs

Harvesting and storing medicinal herbs

Harvesting and storing medicinal herbs

When harvesting and storing medicinal herbs, it is important to follow certain steps to ensure the herbs' maximum potency and shelf life. In this article, we will look at the various aspects of harvesting and storing medicinal herbs.

Harvest time

The time of harvest is crucial for the quality and content of active ingredients in the medicinal herbs. As a rule, the herbs should be harvested in their flowering phase, as this is when they have the highest content of essential oils and other active ingredients. The timing of flowering can often be determined by the appearance of the plant. It is advisable to find out about the ideal harvest time for the respective medicinal plant before harvesting.

Harvesting methods

There are different methods to harvest medicinal herbs. One option is to cut off the upper parts of the plant, making sure to leave enough plant material for good regeneration. Individual leaves or flowers can also be harvested selectively if they are plants that need to be preserved in their entirety.

It is important to use tools that are clean and sharp to avoid pinching or bruising plant parts. Improper harvesting can result in reduced quality of herbs and affect their shelf life.

Drying of medicinal herbs

Drying is a crucial step in storing medicinal herbs as it prevents the growth of mold and bacteria and preserves the active ingredient content. There are different methods for drying medicinal herbs that can be used depending on the type of plant and personal preferences.

A common method is to hang the herbs in a well-ventilated area where they are protected from sunlight. Herbs should be hung so that there is enough space between plants to allow good air circulation. It is important to check herbs regularly and look for signs of mold or moisture.

Another method is to spread the herbs out on a stretchy fabric such as a drying rack or baking sheet. In this case, it is important to turn the fabric or sheet regularly to ensure even drying.

Storage of medicinal herbs

To ensure the longevity and quality of medicinal herbs, proper storage is essential. Ideally, medicinal herbs should be stored in glass containers or permeable plastic containers to protect them from moisture, light and pests. Containers should be stored in a cool, dark and dry place.

It is important to clean the herbs thoroughly before storing them to remove any impurities. This can be done by gently shaking it off or rinsing it briefly under clear water. After cleaning, the herbs should be completely dry to avoid the formation of mold.

To extend the herbs' shelf life, food-grade silica gel packets can also be placed inside the containers to absorb moisture.

External sources

1. “Harvest time and harvest methods” – herbal expert XYZ, (https://www.example.com/erntezeitpunkt)
2. “Drying and storage of medicinal herbs” – Association of Herbalists, (https://www.example.com/trocknung-lagering)

Harvesting and storing medicinal herbs requires care and knowledge to maintain the quality and effectiveness of the herbs. By observing the correct harvest times, harvesting methods, drying techniques and storage conditions, the full potential of medicinal herbs can be used. It is advisable to thoroughly research the specific requirements of each herb and consult outside sources if necessary. With the right approach, the harvested herbs can be stored for a long time and used to make teas, tinctures, ointments and other remedies.