Tips on Storing and Preparing Healing Herbs

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that Americans have become addicted to pill popping. There is nothing simpler than to open that bottle and ingest another nugget of chemically altered goodness. However many of us are beginning to wake from extended drug induced hibernations.

Side affects and complications due to "life saving pills" are on the rise, and as a nation we are beginning to look for alternatives. Some of us have taken the next step-we are growing, and preparing our own herbs. To those considering this hobby, good news: its simple, and isn't as time consuming as it sounds.

The fist initial step is drying the plant. You can pack them in bundles and hang them in a warm shady spot, however in order to preserve aromatic healing oils found in the plant, its best to speed up the drying time. Herbs can be placed on a cookie sheet in a 95 degree oven. Check it periodically, and turn it so that it dries evenly. The most popular, and effective method is to simply run out to the neighborhood Sears and purchases a small dehydrator. Once dry, use a coffee grinder to change it into a fine powder. For the old fashioned among us a mortar and pestle works just as well.

When storing herbs, it is best to store them in dark, airtight containers. Light and oxygen seep the herbs' medicinal properties, and dampen flavor. Opaque or ceramic containers work best. Fill the container, and if there is remaining space, stuff it with cotton to eliminate oxygen. When stored correctly, medicinal herbs remain potent for well over a year. Make sure no moisture contaminates these stored goods. If it does, re-dry the contents, otherwise it will create a nice environment for the growth of mold.

Healing herbs are usually used in the following manner:

-infusions

-decoctions

-compresses

-tinctures

-ointments

-capsules

-baths