How to Store Herbs

Storing herbs properly is essential to maintaining their flavor, texture and aroma. Here are guidelines for preserving and storing your herbs including leaves, flowers, seeds, barks and roots.

Storage

Store your herbs in clean, airtight containers, away from heat and light, and handle them thoughtfully. Amber glass jars with airtight lids are ideal. You might also keep them in a cupboard or drawer, cover the jars with large opaque labels, or use a curtain to cover them when not in use.

Shelf Life

The shelf life of herbs will vary according to the form and plant part. (Those that have been cut or powdered have more surface area exposed to the air and so lose their flavor more rapidly than whole herbs, for example.) Here are some guidelines:

Whole Herbs

Leaves and flowers: 1 to 2 years

Seeds and barks: 2 to 3 years

Roots: 3 years

Ground Herbs

Leaves: 1 year

Seeds and barks: 1 year

Roots: 2 years