Shelf Life For Most Herbs???

[Eveningthief]

I was just wondering what the shelf life for most herbs would be???

[Lavender]

For dried herbs, usually around 1 year. For roots & barks, 2-3 years or longer. It varies from herb to herb. Some, like lemon balm loses their essential oils almost immediately but will still make a great tasting tea. But the general rule of thumb is about a year.

[idusty88]

Conditions of storage will affect shelflife too. Are they kept dry, cool, dark, and in an airtight container?
Here's a good article about preserving herbs: http://www.chamomiletimes.com/articles/harvestdryherbs.htm .

[Eveningthief]

Thanks to both of you for the information......since I do not have a garden of my own just yet; I was hoping to purchase some different herbs which are sold in zip lock bags. (sort of).....

I didn't know if I should purchase herbs in bulk or smaller quantities. Due to shelf life.

Thanks again for the info. I still have so much to learn.....:)

[Lavender]

If you're buying dried herbs, ask the seller when & where they were harvested. Most reputable places will give you that info. As to the amount of herbs to buy, it would depend on their usage & how much you use them. If it's something you use a lot of, buy bulk. If it's something you're experimenting with & not sure, then buy a small amount. You can always buy more later. Make sure you label the containers...:D The herb you're so sure you'll recognize will always look just like dried grass later. :rolleyes:

[Eveningthief]

Wow....you sure know your herbs..... Thanks for the info. Seems I have alot more to learn. I think I will start out small and work my way up. Just some of the basics like Rue, etc.

I appreciate the info.....onto buying and even more reading. :)