mint and rosemary tea

HOW TO DRY AND PRESERVE HERBS

In the world of culinary arts and home gardening, few things compare to the vibrant, aromatic flavors fresh herbs bring to our dishes. Yet, during peak growing seasons, the abundance of these herbs often calls for effective preservation methods. Learning to preserve food and plants is a valuable skill that helps us enjoy the best of each season, even when they’re out of reach. In this comprehensive blog, we’ll explore the art of drying and preserving herbs, allowing you to savor their delightful essence all year long.

SELECTING THE RIGHT HERBS

Before beginning the journey of drying and preserving herbs, it’s crucial to select the right ones. Opting for herbs at the peak of their flavor and aroma will guarantee the best outcome. Additionally, focus on preserving herbs you genuinely enjoy, so you don’t waste valuable space in your garden or money at the store. Here are some popular choices:

BASIL

Basil is a versatile herb, perfect for adding depth to a variety of dishes like pasta sauces, salads, and pestos. To capture its peak flavor, harvest the fragrant leaves just before the plant begins to flower. Not only does basil enhance your culinary creations with its vibrant taste, but it also contains essential oils with powerful health benefits. These oils boast antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making basil not only a kitchen staple but also a valuable part of your home remedy kit. Personally, I find basil tea helps with digestion; when I feel bloated, a warm cup of basil tea works wonders to ease the discomfort.

ROSEMARY

Renowned for its bold, earthy flavor, rosemary is an excellent herb for seasoning meats and roasted vegetables. For optimal preservation, harvest the stems with their leaves intact. Packed with antioxidants, rosemary supports digestion and strengthens the immune system. Its unmistakable aroma is also known to elevate mood and boost cognitive function. Keeping dried rosemary in your pantry is not just a culinary advantage—it’s also a way to promote overall well-being. I particularly enjoy sprinkling rosemary on homemade dinner rolls to add a rich depth of flavor.

THYME

Thyme’s earthy, slightly minty taste makes it a staple in Mediterranean dishes. To retain its full flavor, harvest the stems just before the plant begins to bloom. Thyme also offers medicinal benefits, as it contains thymol, an active compound known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. Thyme tea is a traditional remedy for sore throats and respiratory issues, making it a versatile herb to keep on hand. Dried thyme isn’t just for cooking—it’s a valuable addition to your home apothecary.

MINT

Mint is refreshing and aromatic, ideal for teas, desserts, and even savory dishes. To preserve its flavor, harvest the leaves before the plant flowers. Mint is particularly well-known for its digestive benefits. Peppermint, a popular variety, can help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and indigestion. Drying mint ensures you have a year-round supply of this soothing herb. A word of caution if you’re growing mint in your garden: plant it in a container, as it tends to spread rapidly and can easily overtake other plants.

LAVENDER

Lavender is an excellent herb to preserve, thanks to its wide array of uses. Its calming properties are well-known, making it a go-to for promoting relaxation and better sleep. Lavender adds a subtle floral note to culinary creations, perfect for infusing syrups, teas, or even creating lavender-infused ice cubes to add a refreshing twist to summertime drinks like lemonade. Beyond the kitchen, lavender offers natural antiseptic and insect-repellent benefits, making it a valuable addition to both your garden and home. By drying, infusing, or freezing lavender, you can extend its shelf life, ensuring you have this versatile herb on hand for relaxation, flavor, and natural remedies year-round.

THE DRYING PROCESS

Now that you’ve selected your herbs, it’s time to explore different methods for drying and preserving them. Each method has its own advantages and can be tailored to your specific needs.

AIR DRYING

Air drying is one of the simplest and most effective ways to preserve herbs. Here’s how to do it:

  • Step 1: Gather your herbs and remove any damaged or yellow leaves.
  • Step 2: Tie the stems together using twine or a rubber band. Keep the bundles snug but not too tight, allowing for proper airflow.
  • Step 3: Hang the bundles upside down in a well-ventilated, dry area, out of direct sunlight. A dimly lit room with good air circulation works best.
  • Step 4: Allow about two weeks for the herbs to fully dry. Once they feel brittle to the touch, strip the leaves from the stems.

Air drying is a gentle process that preserves the herbs’ flavors and essential oils. It’s an ideal method for basil, rosemary, thyme, and mint.

OVEN DRYING

If you need to speed up the process, oven drying is a great option:

  • Step 1: Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (usually around 170°F or 75°C).
  • Step 2: Lay the herb leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet. Be careful not to overcrowd them, as this can hinder drying.
  • Step 3: Place the baking sheet in the oven and leave the door slightly open to let moisture escape, preventing the herbs from cooking.
  • Step 4: Check frequently; the herbs should dry within 2-4 hours, depending on your oven’s temperature.

Oven drying is a faster alternative to air drying, perfect for those short on time. It works particularly well for rosemary and thyme, which can tolerate slightly higher temperatures due to their woody stems.

DEHYDRATOR METHOD

If you have a food dehydrator, this method offers precise control over temperature and airflow:

  • Step 1: Set your dehydrator to the recommended herb drying temperature, usually around 95°F or 35°C.
  • Step 2: Arrange the herb leaves in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, ensuring they don’t overlap for even drying.
  • Step 3: Dry for 1-4 hours, checking for crispness. The drying time varies depending on the moisture content of the herbs and your specific dehydrator model.

A food dehydrator is a convenient and reliable way to preserve herbs, providing consistent results with minimal supervision. This method is suitable for all herb types mentioned above.

STORING YOUR DRIED HERBS

Properly preserving dried herbs is key to maintaining their freshness and flavor. Here’s how to ensure your herbs stay at their best:

Step 1:

Crush or crumble the dried herbs and transfer them into airtight containers, like glass jars. This not only makes storage efficient but also releases the herbs’ aroma and flavor when you open the jar.

Step 2:

Label each container with the herb name and the date of preservation. Proper labeling helps you easily identify your herbs and set up a rotation system, so you use the older ones first.

Step 3:

Store the containers in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. A pantry or spice cabinet is ideal.

By storing your dried herbs in airtight containers, you protect them from moisture and light, which can cause their quality to degrade. When properly stored, dried herbs can retain their flavor for up to a year or even longer.

TIPS FOR USING DRIED HERBS

Using dried herbs differs slightly from fresh, but they can still enhance your culinary creations beautifully. Here are a few tips to make the most of them:

Tip 1:

Keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor than fresh ones. Use them sparingly to avoid overpowering your dishes. As a general guideline, use about one-third to one-half the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh.

Tip 2:

Before adding dried herbs to your recipes, crush or rub them between your fingers. This releases their essential oils, boosting their flavor and aroma to blend seamlessly into your dishes.

Tip 3:

In simmering sauces, soups, and stews, add dried herbs early in the cooking process. This allows time for their flavors to fully develop, giving your dishes a rich and well-rounded taste.

CONCLUSION

Drying and preserving herbs are essential techniques for preserving their flavor, aroma, and nutritional value. By following the appropriate methods, you can enjoy the benefits of fresh herbs year-round. Whether you opt for air-drying, oven drying, or using a dehydrator, the key is to ensure proper ventilation, low humidity, and protection from light. Additionally, storing dried herbs in airtight containers in a cool, dark place will help maintain their quality for longer. With a little care and attention, you can easily incorporate dried herbs into your cooking and enjoy their delicious flavors throughout the year.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL FOR RAPIDLY ACHIEVING LONGER, THICKER, AND LUSCIOUS HAIR

Looking to quickly achieve longer, thicker hair? While there’s no miracle solution for instant growth, this homemade hair growth oil can help accelerate the process. Packed with herbs and essential oils, this all-natural recipe is the result of years spent experimenting with effective methods for fast hair growth. It’s simple to make and highly effective.

There are plenty of so-called “fast hair growth secrets” out there—some work, while others don’t, and I’ve likely tried most of them! My journey into natural beauty began with a desire for longer, thicker hair. Like all my DIY beauty recipes, this hair growth oil stems from my personal experiences.

As a teen, I would spend hours hunting for herbs and supplements in specialty stores, diligently reading Long Hair Care Community forums, and testing various tips and remedies to grow my hair to hip length. In retrospect, I wish I’d focused less on superficial goals, but this quest provided valuable insights into the beauty industry, helping me cultivate discernment.

Whether you’re looking to combat hair loss, encourage regrowth after stress, or simply boost your hair growth, I hope this hair oil recipe helps you reach your goals.

CAN OILS REALLY HELP GROW YOUR HAIR FASTER?

The hair growth industry is booming, with countless new, exotic “fast hair growth oils” and magic serums promising to deliver your dream of long, mermaid-like locks.

However, the reality is that most carrier oils lack any truly magical properties for hair growth. In fact, using excessive amounts of the wrong oil can lead to issues like yeast overgrowth, exacerbating hair loss and scalp problems.

Take argan oil, for example. It was once hailed as the miracle hair growth oil, but its fatty acid profile is quite ordinary, resembling that of sesame or sunflower oil—neither of which have been shown to promote hair growth. (And I say this as someone who once relied on argan oil!)

That said, a few oils do genuinely support hair growth and thickness. When combined with certain herbs and essential oils—like rosemary and peppermint—you can create a more effective homemade hair growth oil.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL BENEFITS + HOW IT WORKS

This homemade hair oil promotes natural hair growth in several effective ways:

  • Stimulates Scalp Blood Flow: Infused with powerful herbs and essential oils, this recipe enhances blood circulation to the scalp and hair follicles.
  • Modulates Hair Growth Phase: Castor oil activates prostaglandin pathways linked to the growth phase, accelerating hair growth.
  • Reduces Scalp Buildup: Massaging the oil into your scalp before washing helps loosen buildup that can clog hair follicles, similar to how cleansing oils keep facial pores clear.
  • Antioxidant Activity: The antioxidants in this DIY hair oil protect hair follicles and shafts from oxidative stress, supporting faster growth.
  • Antimicrobial Activity: Excess bacteria and yeast can cause issues like dandruff and scalp acne, hindering growth. The antibacterial herbs and essential oils in this recipe, such as rosemary oil, help maintain a balanced scalp environment.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s dive into how to make your own hair growth oil.

KEY HERBS FOR HAIR GROWTH

PEPPERMINT

Known for its cooling and soothing effects, peppermint oil is great for irritated scalps. Research suggests it may promote hair growth even more effectively than rosemary. Peppermint oil accelerates the hair growth phase and increases hair follicles, contributing to longer, thicker hair. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties also support scalp health.

WHITE WILLOW BARK

If you face scalp issues like dandruff or acne, white willow bark can be beneficial. It contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory and gentle exfoliant. While it doesn’t directly stimulate hair growth, it promotes a healthy scalp by soothing irritation, unclogging pores, and reducing buildup.

ROSEMARY

Rosemary-infused oil is a popular remedy for hair growth. Studies show it can be as effective as minoxidil without side effects. Rosemary stimulates blood flow to the scalp, nourishing hair follicles and encouraging both new and existing hair growth. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help maintain a healthy scalp, while its antioxidants protect against oxidative stress, which can lead to hair loss.

GREEN TEA

Adding green tea leaves to your hair oil infuses it with antioxidants that support hair follicle health. Although caffeine and ECEG—key components for hair growth—are water-soluble and won’t transfer to oil, the antioxidants in green tea still provide benefits. Note that it can impart a deep green color to the oil, but it generally doesn’t stain hair.

These herbs are effective allies in your quest for longer, thicker hair, and incorporating them into your hair oil can enhance its benefits.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR HAIR GROWTH

To enhance your herbal hair growth oil, consider adding essential oils for concentrated benefits. 

Peppermint and rosemary essential oils are particularly effective for promoting hair growth, and using both can provide optimal results. You can also create a blend with cedarwood, lavender, thyme, frankincense, myrrh, palmarosa, and nettle, all known for supporting hair growth and scalp health. 

Additionally, incorporating an essential oil blend like Beauty Within can further boost scalp health with its antifungal properties, making it a great addition to your scalp treatments and hair masks.

FAST HAIR GROWTH OIL INGREDIENTS

You’ll need just a few ingredients for this DIY hair growth oil:

  • Heat-stable carrier oil for herbal infusion
  • Cold-pressed castor oil
  • Dried, organic hair growth herbs
  • Growth-boosting essential oils
  • Vitamin E oil

You can choose to make this oil with essential oils, herbal infusion, or both. I prefer using both to maximize the plant’s benefits. If you’re short on time, simply mix the carrier oils with the recommended essential oils.

INGREDIENTS

  • J MAC BOTANICALS Organic Cold-Pressed Castor Oil
  • Starwest Botanicals Organic Rosemary Leaf
  • Simply Earth Rosemary Essential Oil
  • Vitamin E Oil from Forefront Health

CARRIER OIL OPTIONS

  • MCT oil
  • Fractionated coconut oil
  • Avocado oil
  • Jojoba oil
  • Olive oil

Using a stable carrier oil is crucial. Many common oils, like sweet almond and sunflower oil, contain unstable polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that break down with heat and light, losing their beneficial properties. Instead, opt for monounsaturated or saturated oils, which are more stable. I recommend MCT or fractionated coconut oil, especially if you have issues with yeast overgrowth, as MCT oil won’t feed Malassezia yeast.

Once you prepare the herbal-infused oil, dilute it with castor oil. Castor oil is well-regarded for hair growth due to its unique properties:

  • It mimics prostaglandins, extending the active hair growth phase and delaying the resting phase.
  • It conditions and prevents hair follicles from drying out.
  • It moisturizes and protects existing hair from breakage.
  • It has antibacterial and antifungal properties to maintain a healthy scalp.
  • It’s rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which protect hair follicles from oxidative damage.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

  • 47g herbal infused oil (see below for instructions)
  • 47g castor oil
  • 3.5ml peppermint essential oil
  • 3.5ml rosemary essential oil

HERBAL INFUSED OIL

  • 1 cup (200g) carrier oil (e.g., MCT, olive, or avocado oil)
  • ~3/4 cup dry herbs (e.g., rosemary, willow bark, peppermint, green tea)
  • 5ml (1 tsp) vitamin E oil

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare Herbal Infused Oil:
    • Place dry herbs in a clean, heat-proof mason jar. Pour carrier oil over the herbs and add vitamin E oil. Stir gently to ensure herbs are fully submerged.
    • Seal the jar with a one-piece metal lid.
  • Infuse Oil:
    • In a slow cooker, place a hand towel at the bottom and fill with water to submerge the jar without leaking. Set to low and infuse for 8-12 hours, keeping water temperature between 50°C-71°C (120-160°F). Monitor closely to avoid overheating.
  • Strain Oil:
    • Once infused, let the oil cool. Strain out the herbs using cheesecloth or a sieve, pressing gently to extract all the oil. Be cautious of sharp herb pieces.
  • Combine Oils:
    • Mix equal parts of the herbal infused oil and castor oil. Add peppermint and rosemary essential oils, stirring well.
  • Store:
    • Transfer the final mixture to a glass dropper bottle for easy application.

Enjoy your homemade hair growth oil!

HOW TO MAKE HAIR OIL WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Combine castor oil and a low-PUFA carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil) in equal parts. Add vitamin E and a hair growth essential oil blend to the mixture. Then, transfer it to a glass dropper bottle.

HOW TO USE HOMEMADE HAIR GROWTH OIL

To use the hair growth oil, apply it directly to your scalp using the dropper applicator, section by section, to ensure even coverage. After saturating your scalp, gently massage the oil in with your fingers or a jade gua sha comb to boost blood circulation to the follicles, promoting faster growth. If safe for you, you can also massage your scalp with your head upside down.

Leave the oil on for at least an hour or overnight, depending on your hair washing routine. When ready to wash it out, use conditioner first to help remove the castor oil, then follow with your regular shampoo. For added benefits, consider using a rosemary hair rinse or a pH-balancing vinegar rinse afterward.

CONCLUSION

DIY hair growth oil offers a natural and cost-effective solution for promoting hair growth and improving hair health. By combining essential oils known for their hair-nourishing properties with carrier oils that provide moisture and penetration, you can create a personalized hair treatment that addresses your specific needs. Remember to patch test the oil before applying it to your scalp to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions. Consistent use and proper application are key to achieving optimal results.