Harvest and storage of medicinal herbs

Harvest and storage of medicinal herbs

harvest and storage of medicinal herbs

When harvesting and storing medicinal herbs, it is important to consider certain steps in order to ensure the maximum effectiveness and durability of the herbs. In this article we will deal with the various aspects of harvesting and storing medicinal herbs.

harvest time

The time of harvesting is crucial for the quality and the content of active ingredients in the medicinal herbs. As a rule, the herbs should be harvested in their flowering phase, as they have the highest content of essential oils and other active ingredients at this point. The time of flowering can often be seen from 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 possibility is to cut off the upper parts of the plant, whereby it should be ensured that enough plant material for good regeneration remains. Individual leaves or flowers can also be harvested when it comes to plants that should be preserved in their entirety.

It is important to use tools that are clean and sharp to avoid getting in or squeezing the plant parts. Improper harvesting can lead to a reduced quality of the herbs and impair their durability.

drying of medicinal herbs

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

A common method is to hang up the herbs in a well -ventilated place where they are protected from sunlight. The herbs should be hung so that there is enough space between the plants to enable good air circulation. It is important to check the herbs regularly and pay attention to signs of mold or moisture.

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

storage of medicinal herbs

In order to ensure the longevity and quality of medicinal herbs, the correct storage is essential. Ideally, the medicinal herbs in glass containers should be stored on a plastic container in order to protect them from moisture, light and pests. The containers should be kept in a cool, dark and dry place.

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

In order to extend the durability of the herbs, food-safe silicail packages can also be placed in the containers to absorb moisture.

external sources

1. "Harvest time and harvesting methods" - herbal expert XYZ, (https://www.example.com/erntezeitpzeit) 2. "Drying and storing medicinal herbs"-Association of the herbalist, (https://www.example.com/trocking-lagung)

The harvesting and storage of medicinal herbs requires care and knowledge in order to maintain the quality and effect of the herbs. By observing the right harvest times, harvesting methods, drying techniques and storage conditions, the full potential of the medicinal herbs can be used. It is advisable to find out thoroughly about the specific requirements of the individual herbs and to consult external sources if necessary. With the right procedure, the harvested herbs can be stored for a long time and used for the production of teas, tinctures, ointments and other medicinal products.