Herbs; Harvesting, Preserving, and Storing

[Devyn-Leann]

Harvesting herbs -
In mild climates, evergreen herbs such as rosemary and thyme can be gathered fresh all year. In colder climates, unless they are grown indoors, they must be harvested before winter. The leaves of most perennial herbs can be gathered at any time during the growing season, and you can cut as much as three-quarters of the current season's growth in a given harvest. For leaves such as basil, thyme, sage, mint, and lemon balm, the peak time for flavor, fragrance, and tenderness is before they flower.
Collect herbal flowers for the vase or potpurri as soon as the blooms begin to open. For medicinal use, gather whole plants just before they begin flowering.
When you gather herbs, carry a tray or basket big enough to lay herbs flat to avoid crumpling or bruising them. Harvest on a dry day, ideally in the cool morning hours after the dew has evaporated but before the sun has begun to affect the plant and evaporate its volatile oils.


Freezing herbs -
When you want to preserve herbs with tender leaves such as fennel, dill, basil, chives and chervil for culinary purposes, freezing is the easiest method to use, and the one that best preserves their flavor. Chop herbs onto a small tray, freeze, and then shake the frozen leaves into a resealable plastic bag. You can easily shake out the amount you need: It's already chopped and ready to use. You can also chop the sprigs into the compartments of an ice tray and fill them up with water , and freeze.


Drying-
Drying works well for most herbs, except those mentioned above in the freezing section. To preserve quality, herbs need to dry as quickly as possible in a warm, dry , dark space with good ventilation. For long-stemmed and bushy herbs such as sage, rosemary, thyme, the artemisias, the mints, and summer savory, make small bunches tied with string. Hang the bunches upside down. With soft-stemmed herbs such as chamomile, lay them out on a wire cooling rack, a drying tray, or anything that allows air to circulate around the plants. Dry the bunches or trays in a shaded place away from direct sunlight, such as an attic or dry closet, until they are thoroughly dried. Leaves are ready when they have become brittle and break easily; flowers should rustle like tissue paper. Most herbs take 4 to 5 days to dry. Those with thicker leaves may take a week or two.
During very humid weather, when herbs may mold or spoil before they dry, a quicker method is needed. You can dry the herbs in a cool oven or a food dehydrator at a temperature not higher that 90 degrees for one to three days , turning once or twice daily.
You can also use a microwave oven. Seeds and small-leaved herbs will take only about a minute on a low setting; even larger juicier herbs will not take longer than about 3 minutes.

[Devyn-Leann]

I'll also add a list of some of the herbs you all are growing.




Garlic - Allium Sativum
Height is around 1 ft.
Habit - Hardy perrennial with bulbs containing 5 to 15 bublets (cloves); long narrow, basal leaves; small, ball-shaped cluster of greenish white to pink flowers in summer
Habitat - prefers full sun and light, fertile, well-drained soil
Zones- 4-9

Garlic is one of the oldest and best-known herbs. Its use was recorded over five thousand years ago in Mesopotamia. Garlic is used with meat and vegetables, and in sauces, soups, salads, and many other dishes. It should be harvested when the leaves and bulbs are dry, and stored in a cool place. Garlic is most beneficial if eaten raw. It has been shown to reduce low-density lipoproteins (the "bad" cholesterol) in the blood. It has also been found to slightly reduce blood pressure. There is some evidence that garlic may reduce the aggregation of platelets, which may help reduce the risk of blood clots. It has also been used for digestive problems and for chest infections and colds. It has been shown to have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, and for this reason has sometimes been used on wounds, athlete's foot, and warts. The recommended prophylactic dose is one fresh clove, eaten raw, one or two times daily.



More later...Time to cook dinner now!!

[indygal]

This is good information. Thanks, Devyn!

[frawin]

Yes, thanks from me too!  I'm excited to be growing herbs this year, so am interested in any info I can find.
mlw

[Ole Granny]

Thanks, I never even considered freezing - I will try it. 

[Devyn-Leann]

I'll add more as I can. It just takes alot of time. But I did get the pages marked last night!!!

[frawin]

Thanks, I really appreciate the help, as this is my first attempt.  I've always wanted to try herbs, but never had the time or a good place to do it.
mlw

[Dale Smith]

Here is some interesting information about the medicinal purposes of herbs:

ANISE--(pimpinella anisum)

This licorice like herb is very useful for breaking up mucus such as chest congestion and is very useful for hard dry hacking coughs where there is congestion in the lungs. Make an infusion by adding three teaspoonfuls of the crushed seed to a cup of boiled water. Cover and allow to steep fifteen minutes. You may wish to sweeten this with a little honey before drinking. The same tea may also be used to stimulate mother's milk and to treat flatulence. Some added to an herbal mixture for the treatment of diarrhea will help prevent cramping.

BASIL--(Ocimum basilicum)

Sweet basil is useful as a tea for the treatment of indigestion, fever, cold, flu, kidney and bladder, headache, cramp, nausea, vomiting, constipation and nervous conditions. For the above purposes an infusion is made using one ounce slightly crushed leaves to a pint of boiling water, cover and steep twenty minutes. Drink 1/2 cup every three hours as needed. For the treatment of fevers add three powdered black peppercorns per cup.

BAY--(Laurus nobilis)

This tree was dedicated to Apollo and Aseculapium (Greek God of medicine) and is considered capable of increasing and maintaining great health and happiness. One or two leaves added to home made soups and stews not only improves the flavor but helps prevent gas and indigestion. Do not use this herb in large amounts internally. Externally they may be applied liberally as a poultice on the chest area with a cloth covering to aid in bronchitis and coughs. A little Oil of Bay (essential oil not infused) is of great benefit when applied to areas afflicted with rheumatism and arthritis as well as other swellings and sprains.

BLACK PEPPER (Piper nigrum)

Yogis consider this to be one nature's most perfect foods, useful not only as a cure for ailments but also as a preventative measure for general daily health. In this manner it is taken in the dose of seven ground peppercorns mixed with honey each morning. This mixture is also quite useful to help over come colds and sore throats.

CARAWAY (Carum carvi)

Is good to aid in the digestive process, for indigestion, gas, colic and mild nervous conditions. For these purpose an infusion is made using once ounce of the crushed seeds to a pint of boiling water, cover and allow to stand twenty minutes or you may allow the mixture to stand in cold water overnight. Drink the infusion in frequent doses of two to three tablespoons until relief is obtained. It is also a mild stimulant and may be added to herbal mixtures for digestion and laxatives to prevent griping

CARDAMON (Elettaria cardamomum)

is a carminative and stimulant and is normally mixed with other herbs to treat indigestion and gas. It warms the body and is good for diarrhea, colic and headaches

CAYENNE (Capsicum anuum)

For those of you who like it it's a good stimulant, astringent, carminative and antispasmodic. It is considered to be a superior herb to use in a crisis situation, keeping a little on hand is probably a good idea. For the purposes of general health and in the prevention of heart attack, strokes, colds, flu, diminish vitality, headaches, indigestion, depression and arthritis and for the benefit of the heart and circulation system, one may take a daily tonic of one quarter teaspoon mixed with water three times daily. A powder of tincture of cayenne may be rubbed on toothaches, swelling and inflammations. A useful remedy for arthritis is to rub some cayenne tincture into the inflamed join and wrap a flannel around it for the night. For hemorrhage, internally and externally, it is useful to stop and control the bleeding because it normalizes the circulation. In this manner it is also suited to those who have high and/or low blood pressure.

CINNAMON (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

Is stimulating, astringent, demulcent and carminative. It warms the entire system and medicinaly is used to warm the organs in specific for the treatment of chronic diarrhea, cramps, heart and abdominal pain, coughing, wheezing, lower back pain. For these purposes one teaspoon is gently warmed with a cup of milk and a little honey. It is most effective when given as tincture every fifteen minutes or so to stop bleeding from the uterus

CLOVES (Syzygium aromaticum)

They are stimulating aromatic buds and are effective in warming the body, increasing circulation, improving digestion and treating flatulence, vomiting and nausea. It is normally added to another herbal mixture when a stimulant is required. Oil of Clove may be applied directly to a toothache with cotton ball until you can reach the dentist. Or you can chew on a clove or two instead.

CUMIN (Cuminum cyminum)

One of the best herbs to prevent and relieve gas and as such is useful when added to cooked beans and fried foods. It is of benefit to the heart and uterus, it is given to women after childbirth to increase the flow of mother's milk. In these manners an infusion is made by crushing one teaspoon of the seeds and adding to a cup of boiled water. It does have a strong flavor and you may prefer to take it capsule form. Externally it can be used as a liniment for stimulating circulation

FENNEL (Foeniculum vulgare)

Useful as an antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic, expectorant and stimulant. An infusion is made using one teaspoon crushed seeds to a cup of boiled water steep twenty minutes, this is used to treat colic, cramps, gas and to expel mucus. The cooled infusion (wash) can be used as an eye wash

FENUGREEK (Trigonella foenumgraecum)

It is useful for all mucous conditions and lung congestion. A decoction is made using one ounce of the crushed seeds and seven crushed peppercorns to a pint of boiling water, cover and simmer fifteen minutes. The same is also useful for ulcers and inflammed conditions of the stomach and intestine. It is also considered to be an aphrodisiac and rejuvenator. Externally it is used in an emollient poultice applied to boils

GARLIC (allium sativum)

Oh! Where to begin with this one? I should just say "take it, take it, take it!" because that's pretty much what it comes down to with this one. It is used in the treatment of all lung ailments, in the treatment of high and low blood pressure, high cholesterol, against parasites and infections (great antibiotic properties!), also for headaches and moderate nervous disorders. The fresh juice is most effective in all cases. For t his crush one clove garlic in a glass of hot milk. For high blood pressure take twice daily. Since this isn't really..ah..acceptable..bad breath and all..for these purposes purchased garlic pills/capsules at the local health food store and take them!

GINGER (zingiber officinale)

Ginger tea is made by grating one ounce fresh ginger root and simmer ten minutes in a pint of water it is very good for indigestion,cramps and nausea. Take with honey and lemon and it is good for colds and flu and will induce sweating. Snack on ginger cookies if you suffer from motion sickness. Externally it is applied for the treatment of pain, inflammation and stiff joints. For this purpose simmer five o ounces fresh grated root in two quarter water for ten minutes. Strain and soak a cloth in water, apply directly to affected area. Change and re-dip cloth often to keep the temperature constantly warm. The skin should become red as the circulation increases. Also for massage purposes you may squeeze the juice of fresh grated ginger and combine with equal parts olive or sesame oil to relieve muscle pain

MARJORAM (origanum majorana)

Useful for upset stomach, headache, colic and nervous complaints. An infusion is made using one half ounce marjoram steeped in a pint of boiling water. This is also useful for cramps, nausea associated with menstruation and severe cases of abdominal cramps.

MUSTARD SEED (Brassica nigra).

Internally a teaspoonful of the crushed seeds mixed in warm water acts as a mild laxative and blood purifier but a tablespoonful acts as a quick emetic. Externally it really is wonderful for aches, sprains, spasms and cold areas needing circulation. For this purpose a thick plaster is made by mixing powdered mustard with water until thick paste is made. Spread this on a cotton cloth and place a thin layer of cotton cloth on the skin as well, do not let the plaster come in direct contact with the skin as this may be irritating. Leave on until desired warmth is obtained, once removed powder the skin area with rice or other flour and wrap the area with a clean cotton cloth.

NUTMEG (myristica fragans)

A small amount of nutmeg, about the size of a pea, may be taken daily and over long periods to help relieve chronic nervous disorders and heart problems. Large doses are often poisonous and may cause miscarriage.

ROSEMARY (rosmarinum officinalis)

Is of great benefit when used to treat headaches and is a terrific substitute for aspirin. It is astringent, diaphoretic and stimulant. As such is also useful for indigestion, colic, nausea, gas and fevers. For these purposes an infusion is made by using one half ounce of rosemary to a pint of boiled water allow to steep for ten minutes covered and drink. It is also useful externally for the hair and scalp, use a strong infusion (cooled of course!) as a rinse after shampooing

SAGE (Salvia officinalis)

Is antispasmodic and astringent in action and is of benefit when slowing secretions. It is used to excessive perspiration, night sweats, clear vaginal discharge and to stop the flow of milk. Also use for diarrhea, dysentery and the early stages of cold, flu , sinus congestion, bladder infections and inflammatory conditions. Make an infusion by steeping one quarter ounce of herb ina pint of boiled water steep ten minutes. This should not be used for more than one week at a time but during this time you may take the up to three times per day. It also makes an excellent gargle for sore throats and ulcerations of the mouth.

THYME (Thymus vulgaris)

Is a very important and useful parasiticide useful for intestinal worms but also wonderful for athlete's foot! For the purposes of athlete's foot make a strong infusion and allow to cool completely, apply to the area as often as necessary with a cotton ball. Also great when used in this manner to wash all cuts, scraped, bruises and abrasions before other first aid treatment. When used as a strong tea is is helpful for bronchial problems such a as acute bronchitis and w whooping cough also laryngitis Do not use in large amounts.

TURMERIC (Curcuma longa)

This is used as a blood purifier, stimulant and vulnerary. It may be applied internally and externally to heal wounds, relieve pain in the limbs, break up congestion and a restorative after loss of blood at childbirth. It is of great benefit to the circulatory system. Also useful for reducing fevers and for nosebleeds. A teaspoon of turmeric powder is added with a teaspoon of almond oil to a cup of warm milk. One to two cups are taken daily.

[frawin]

Thanks, Dale, I'm going to keep this info handly.  Did your mother ever use mustand plasters on you to break up a cough & cold?
Or, turpentine & lard?  UGH!  I can remember rubbing those on my throat and chest and then putting a warm flannel cloth over it before putting on pajamas and heading off to bed!  Also, we used camphophenic to open up nasal passages.  Well, I got off the subject a little bit, but it sorta tied back!
mlw

[Devyn-Leann]

TARRAGON - Artemisia dracunculus
Plant family - Compositae (daisy family)
Height - up to 3 ft.
Habit - Hardy perennial with sturdy, branched stems and slender linear, aromatic leaves; rarely produces tiny tassels of yellowish green flowers in summer
Habitat - full sun and rich, well-drained soil
Zones - 3-9

Tarragon has tiny flowers and rarely produces viable seeds. To grow this herb, you need to purchase plants or start cuttings from a friend's plant. Avoid seeds, as the only seeds sold as tarragon will be its flavorless relative Russian tarragon.
Tarragon is used in cooking throughout the world, especially to flavor vinegars, and in chicken and egg dishes; it is also good in dips and spreads. It is often included in the 'fines herbes' mixture. It owes its popularity as a culinary herb to its distinctive, spicy anise taste, caused largely by its essential oil component, estragole. The fresh herb has the bestanise flavor, when dried the flavor is less pronounced. Tarragon has been used as an appetite stimulant, perhaps because it adds such wonderful flavor to food. It has also been used to relieve flatulence. 
Tarragon has also been used in perfumes for its fragrance. It keeps its scent when used in dried herb arrangements.
CAUTION - Tarragon should not be taken during pregnancy. The estragole present in its essential oil has been indentified as potentially carcinogenic.