Learn four methods to preserve fresh herbs: Air Drying, Powders, Freezing, Extracts, and Oxymels
Herbal Properties
● Rosemary -- energy, circulation, digestion, nerves
● Sage -- antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral; used for digestive problems
● Thyme -- for upper respiratory infections, coughs, bronchitis; also antiviral and antibacterial
● Oregano -- for upper respiratory infections, also antiviral and antibacterial
● Mint -- stomach soothing, digestive aid
● Raspberry Leaves -- rich in antioxidants and iron; used for PMS and menstrual cramping
● Lemon Verbena -- reduces inflammation and fever, strengthens muscles, boosts immunity, digestive aid, relieves stomach issues
● Basil -- to ease inflammation and joint pain; for mental fatigue, stress, and depression
● Chamomile -- for improved sleep quality and to promote digestive health
● Hyssop -- used for digestive and intestinal problems including liver and gallbladder conditions and loss of appetite; also for respiratory problems
● Shiso -- antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral; high in iron, calcium, and carotene; used for respiratory problems, improved immunity, and digestive upset
Air Drying & Powders
Works best with herbs with low moisture content: bay, dill, oregano, rosemary, and thyme.
Indoor Air Drying ○ Harvest branches, remove dry or diseased leaves, and clear bottom inch of each stem ○ Tie stems in bundles and hang upside down ○ Place bundle in a holey paper bag & label ○ Hang upside down in warm, airy, dry room for ~2 weeks (avoid kitchen for heat and steam)
Make a Powder
○ Mortar & pestle, clean coffee grinder, food processor
○ Jar & label, and discard any jar that grows mold, and re-dry any jars that show signs of moisture
○ Store jars in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
○ 1⁄4 part dried = 1 part fresh
○ Use within 1 year
Freezing Herbs
Herbs with higher water content are better preserved frozen than dried: try basil, chives, cilantro, mint, parsley
Unlike dried herbs, frozen herbs can be used in same proportions as fresh herbs
Freeze as Individual Leaves:
○ Clean, dry, and separate leaves from stalks
○ Spread individual leaves flat on a cookie sheet and cover with waxed paper or plastic wrap
○ Freeze 2hrs to overnight
○ Store in zippered bags
Freeze as “Ice Cubes”
○ Clean, dry, and chop herbs and add one tablespoon to each portion; cover with water in an ice cube tray
○ Alternatively, blend fresh herbs with a preferred cooking oil and freeze in individual cube portions
DIY Extracts
● Extracts use alcohol to pull beneficial nutrients from the herbs over time
● Use 80 Proof (40% alcohol by weight) vodka + fresh herb leaves
● Clean and dry herb leaves well, then chop roughly
● Pack leaves into a small jar, leaving a bit of wiggle room
● Fill jar with vodka to cover the leaves
● Store out of direct sunlight, shaking daily for 6-8 weeks
● Strain out leaves and enjoy, storing out of sunlight
● Can use same method to make homemade vanilla extract
Oxymels
● A sweet & sour herbal syrup, from Latin “oxymeli” meaning “acid and honey”
● Made of 1 part herbs + 3-4 parts vinegar and honey
● Vinegar helps draw out beneficial vitamins and minerals, and both honey and vinegar act as preservatives
● Keep refrigerated or in a cool, dark place for ~1yr
Hot Method:
○ Use 2x the allotted amount of vinegar and simmer for 15-30 minutes with desired herbs
○ Strain & mix finished product with an equal part honey
○ ~1 year shelf life
Cold Method:
○ Fill small jar 1⁄2-3⁄4 full of herbs
○ Pour honey over herbs, then vinegar; about half and half, or more vinegar to taste; Stir
○ Shake daily for ~2 weeks, then strain herbs out, bottle it and store in a cool place or the refrigerator
Infused Oils
1. Clean the jars
2. Choose flavoring / aroma
Chili pepper, garlic, aromatic herbs for culinary oil
Lavender, rose petals, rosemary for cosmetic oils
3. Choose an oil (EVOO for cooking; baby or almond oil for cosmetics)
4. Fill container: 1c plant material, 2c oil
5. Leave in sun for a few days, until plant material begins to brown
6. If not strong enough, strain and repeat with fresh plant material
7. When to your liking, strain thoroughly and put in a clean bottle
8. Store in cool, dry place