Natural Organic Herbal Remedies

Harvesting Oregano Leaves

Harvesting herbs, more importantly the timing of your long-awaited efforts largely depends on how you intend to use them. If you harvest correctly you will enjoy full benefits that the particular herb has to offer. Right moment in the day and the right point of the growing season will maximize the retention of best essential oils and all the flavours being sought.

Harvesting Leaves

If you intend to use the leaves of a particular herb for cooking, salads or other culinary flavouring you can pick a handful of leaves at any point during the growing season. Try to pick as early as possible in the morning as maximum flavours are retained.

Timing of your harvest is much more critical for herbs being used for their medicinal properties. Leaves are loaded with Essential Oils. They are  aromatic organic compounds that are full of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, hormones and much more. Chemical composition of these oils constantly changes. They are the defense mechanism of the plant. These changes are evolving for duration of the life cycle as well as any changes in their environment.

The biggest change occurs during the day and night-time. The best time to harvest leaves is early in the morning, just after the dew has evaporated. At this point the plant has the greatest aroma and beneficial properties.

The best timing within its life cycle is to harvest leaves  during budding phase, just before any flowers have opened. At this stage the herb is full of active ingredients necessary to sustain the growth and the reproductive phase.

Harvesting Flowers

Chamomile Flowers In Full Bloom

Herbal flowers are used across the board for their healing properties. Their highly aromatic essential oils are ideal for homeopathy, aromatherapy and number of remedies. The use of flowers in culinary flavoring is on the rise, just be carefull as not all flowers are edible. Some flowers, such as chamomile , make great tasting tea. Chamomile is known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Similar to leaves, the best time of the day to harvest flowers is early in the morning  just after the morning dew has evaporated. The essential oils have the most fragrance and nutritional value being sought.

As far as harvesting the flowers in respect of plants life cycle the most ideal time is just after the flowers have opened. The strongest aroma and greatest nutritional benefits are at this stage. Use, or process the flowers as soon as possible to minimize the loss of valuable nutrients. 

Harvesting Roots

Harvesting Parsnip

Roots should be harvested at the end of the growing season. As the cooler weather approaches roots retain  maximum amount and quality of nutrients for the winter. Take care when lifting the roots out of the soil. Do not damage the roots and discard any that are damaged in any way. Thoroughly wash the roots with running cold water to remove dirt and soil. Do not soak the roots for any length of time.

Roots are loaded with nutrients. Any bruising, cuts or any kind of damage make it susceptible to disease. Bacteria and fungus are just waiting to find the ideal media  to grow. Likewise any water saturation for prolonged period will activate the fungi and bacteria growth.