Storing Dried Herbs


Store your herbs in clean, airtight containers, away from heat and light, and handle them thoughtfully. You may keep them in a cupboard or drawer or the door of your refrigerator.

Shelf Life of Herbs

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