Pure. Potent. Healing. 🌿 The best online sources for the herbs that keep you well.

There’s something special about the way herbs can bring warmth and flavor to our homes, much like the sweet southern hospitality we cherish. While I love to support my local community, I’ve found that sometimes the best dried herbs come from a little online exploration. I’ve gathered a list of my go-to suppliers who not only offer quality and variety but also bring a wealth of herbal knowledge to the table. Choosing a reputable supplier ensures that you receive fresh, potent herbs without the worry of mislabeling or misidentification.

Top Online Stores for Purchasing Dried Herbs

My own garden is a source of joy, providing many of the plants I cherish. Yet, when I find myself in need of something I can’t grow or simply don’t have the space for, I turn to my trusted online suppliers. After trying several, the ones below consistently deliver high-quality dried herbs, and their customer service is as warm as a sunny afternoon on the porch.

Banyan Botanicals

If you’re on the hunt for Ayurvedic herbs, Banyan Botanicals is a treasure trove. They offer a wonderful variety of rare botanicals, spices, and herbs that are staples in both Ayurveda and Western herbalism, like licorice and hawthorn. Plus, they provide free shipping on orders over $60, and their selection of Ayurvedic formulas is simply outstanding.

Frontier Coop

Next up is Frontier Coop, a favorite among many for dried herbs. They package their herbs in mylar bags, ensuring freshness that far surpasses the standard plastic bags from other companies. If you’re looking to stock up, they often offer larger quantities, so consider teaming up with a friend to share an order. I like to order through Amazon as an affiliate, which gives me the bonus of free shipping and speedy delivery within just a couple of days.

Mountain Rose Herbs

First on my list is Mountain Rose Herbs. Their selection and quality are simply unmatched. Though their premium products come at a price, I’ve never received anything stale or subpar. They’ve even made shipping more affordable with their new flat rate tiers, making it easier to place those smaller orders without a second thought.

Determining the Quality of Dried Herbs

When your order arrives, it’s essential to check the freshness of your dried herbs. In my experience, herbs ordered online often outshine those from local stores, which tend to store their herbs in clear jars that expose them to light, humidity, and oxygen over time. Specialized herb companies know how to keep their products fresh for as long as possible.

Assessing the quality of dried herbs takes a little practice. Growing and drying your own herbs is the best way to ensure you have the freshest quality. Even when I purchase from reputable suppliers, I sometimes find that the freshness isn’t what I hoped for. Herbs lose their potency quickly when exposed to light, heat, and moisture. To determine if your herbs are up to snuff, take a moment to examine their color, fragrance, and texture.

Vibrant Leaves and Blossoms

One of the quickest ways to evaluate dried herbs is by taking a look at their appearance. Premium herbs boast bright, vibrant colors. Some herbs, like calendula, plantain, and cleavers, tend to lose their hue when dried. For instance, calendula petals should remain a striking orange, no matter the variety. Whenever you can, opt for whole calendula flowers to capture all their benefits.

Unique Scents

Just like kitchen spices, dried herbs gradually lose their distinctive aromas over time. With a little experience, you’ll come to recognize how each herb should smell. If everything in your home apothecary starts to smell the same, it’s likely that their beneficial qualities have faded. And keep an eye out for mold; a musty or peppery odor could signal a problem.

Crunchy Texture

Most herbs should have a crisp texture when dried, although some, like raspberry and mullein leaves, might feel soft and fluffy. Leaves should crumble easily, while petals should feel as dry as paper. Roots shouldn’t feel dusty or powdery, as this might indicate mold, and they should resist easy denting with a fingernail.

Premium Dried Herbs at Home

Knowing how to evaluate the quality of dried herbs is key to keeping your herbal supplies fresh at home. You’ll be able to tell when your herbs are still vibrant and potent or when it’s time to say goodbye and compost them.

If your home-dried herbs have lost their color and aroma, it may be time to revisit your drying techniques. Make sure you’re drying them in a cool, dark place, away from heat and moisture.

Methods for Storing Dried Herbs

You’ve found yourself some high-quality dried herbs, but how do you keep them that way? Store them in air-sealed Mason jars and keep them in a cool, dark room to preserve their goodness. I hope this guide helps you on your journey to discover the wonderful world of healing herbs!