How to properly dry lemon balm at home

How to prepare lemon balm for drying

Melissa is harvested in dry weather, when the morning dew has already dried. You can tear off the tender young leaves or carefully cut the stems with a knife or sickle. There are several ways to dry lemon balm.

Methods for drying lemon balm

In bundles

To dry the grass in bunches, healthy, undamaged stems with leaves are selected. Tie the stems, a maximum of 10 pieces, into a bundle using a rope. Hang them in a dry place protected from the sun.

On a horizontal surface

Spread the grass in a thin layer on a clean cloth or white paper. Dry for 2-3 days, turning occasionally to dry evenly. As in the previous method, drying should take place in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

In the oven

In order to speed up the drying process, you can use the oven. Spread the raw materials on a baking sheet in an even thin layer, dry at a temperature of 45-50 degrees, with the oven door slightly open, for 2-3 hours.

In an electric dryer

Spread the prepared lemon balm into the trays in a thin layer so that air can circulate freely. Set the temperature in the dryer to 45-50 degrees and dry for 2-2.5 hours.

When lemon balm is ready, when pressed, it breaks easily, the color becomes pale green, and when you rub the leaf with your fingers, an intense aroma is felt.

How to store dry lemon balm

Dry herbs should be stored in glass jars with tight-fitting lids or linen bags.

Plastic containers are not suitable for storage.

By putting these tips into practice, you can prepare lemon balm at home. By brewing tea from dried lemon balm, you will not only enjoy the taste and aroma of this drink, but will also bring undoubted benefits to your body.