Dried herbs are the backbone of herbal practice. Whether you use them for teas, tinctures, cooking, or skincare, proper storage makes all the difference. Herbs are living plant material, and once harvested, they slowly lose potency if not cared for correctly.
This guide will show you exactly how to store dried herbs so they retain their flavor, color, and healing properties for as long as possible.
Why Storage Matters
Herbs contain delicate compounds—aromatic oils, antioxidants, alkaloids—that degrade when exposed to air, light, heat, or moisture. Improper storage can lead to:
-
Loss of potency
-
Faded color
-
Weak aroma and flavor
-
Risk of mold or spoilage
When stored properly, most dried herbs can remain potent for 1–2 years.
Best Practices for Storing Herbs
1. Choose the Right Container
-
Glass jars with airtight lids are ideal (mason jars, dark apothecary jars).
-
Metal tins can work, but avoid long-term storage in metal if the herb is acidic.
-
Avoid plastic bags unless temporary, as they let in air and can absorb aroma.
2. Protect from Light
-
Store herbs in a dark cupboard or use amber or cobalt glass jars to block light.
-
Direct sunlight quickly degrades color and essential oils.
3. Keep Cool and Dry
-
Herbs do best in a cool space (60–70°F).
-
Avoid moisture—never store jars near a stove, dishwasher, or bathroom.
4. Store Whole, Not Powdered
-
Whole leaves, roots, and barks last longer than powdered forms.
-
Grind herbs only when needed to preserve potency.
5. Label Clearly
-
Always label with the herb’s name and the date stored.
-
Rotate older stock forward so nothing goes to waste.
How to Tell if Herbs Have Expired
Signs your herbs are past their prime:
-
Faded color (green leaves turn dull brown).
-
Weak or no aroma when rubbed.
-
Stale taste in teas or cooking.
-
Visible moisture, clumping, or mold (discard immediately).
Final Thoughts
Storing herbs correctly ensures you get the maximum benefits from every cup of tea, tincture, or recipe. By protecting them from air, light, heat, and moisture, your herbs will stay vibrant and effective for years to come.
Looking for freshly sourced dried herbs? Browse our collection at LAHerb.com and keep your apothecary stocked with quality.
How to Make a Simple Herbal Tincture at Home
Herbal tinctures are one of the most powerful and convenient ways to take herbs. Unlike teas, which extract water-soluble compounds, tinctures capture both water- and alcohol-soluble constituents, creating a long-lasting, concentrated remedy.
Best of all, tinctures are surprisingly easy to make at home with just a few ingredients and a little patience.
What You’ll Need
-
Dried or fresh herbs (cut or powdered).
-
High-proof alcohol (vodka, brandy, or grain alcohol, ideally 40–60%).
-
A clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
-
Labels for recording herb, date, and alcohol percentage.
-
Cheesecloth or fine strainer.
-
Amber dropper bottles for storage.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Herb
-
Chop fresh herbs or use cut/sifted dried herbs.
-
Fill your jar about ½ full with dried herbs or ¾ full with fresh herbs.
Step 2: Add Alcohol
-
Pour alcohol over the herbs until they are fully submerged.
-
Leave at least an inch of space at the top of the jar.
Step 3: Seal and Store
-
Seal tightly with a lid.
-
Store in a cool, dark place.
-
Shake gently every day or two to aid extraction.
Step 4: Wait
-
Allow tincture to steep for 4–6 weeks. The longer it sits, the stronger it becomes.
Step 5: Strain and Bottle
-
After 4–6 weeks, strain herbs through cheesecloth.
-
Transfer liquid to amber dropper bottles.
-
Label with the herb name, alcohol base, and date.
How to Use Herbal Tinctures
-
Standard dose: 1–2 droppers full (about 30–60 drops) diluted in water, 1–3 times daily.
-
Always research dosage for each herb—some are stronger than others.
-
Tinctures can be blended for custom formulas.
Safety Tips
-
Use food-grade alcohol only.
-
Avoid toxic or unsafe herbs—stick to well-known, safe species.
-
Pregnant or nursing individuals should consult a practitioner before use.
Final Thoughts
Making tinctures at home is a rewarding way to take control of your herbal practice. With just a handful of tools and a little time, you can create long-lasting extracts tailored to your health needs.
Shop high-quality dried herbs at LAHerb.com and start your tincture-making journey today.
