Drying and Storing Medicinal Herbs
2026-07-24
Even the finest herb loses its value if dried or stored badly. Follow this order — harvest, dry, store — and your herbs will keep their healing properties all year round.
When and how to harvest
Harvest in dry weather, after the dew has lifted and before the midday heat. Pick flowers just after opening, leaves before flowering, and roots in autumn. Only take healthy plants from clean locations, away from roads.
Drying properly
Spread herbs in a thin layer, in the shade, in an airy place — never in direct sunlight, which destroys essential oils. They are ready when leaves crumble between your fingers and stems snap.
Storing through the year
Store dried herbs in dark glass jars or paper bags, labelled with the name and harvest year. Keep them away from the stove and moisture. Most herbs keep full strength until the next harvest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can herbs be dried in the oven?
Yes, but only at the lowest setting (up to 40 °C / 104 °F) with the door ajar — otherwise the essential oils are lost.
How do I know a herb has gone off?
Faded colour, lost aroma, dark spots or any sign of damp mean the herb should no longer be used.
