Roots and barks are the slow breathers of the herbal world — dense, resilient, and long-lasting when treated well.
-
Keep it dry. Moisture is the enemy of longevity. Use airtight jars with silica packs if you live by the coast.
-
Shield from light. Store in dark glass or cupboards. Ultraviolet light degrades plant resins.
-
Rotate seasonally. Buy small refills from Berkeley’s Lhasa Karnak to keep stock fresh.
-
Grind only when needed. Powdered forms lose aroma faster than whole cut pieces.
Handled well, barks like White Willow and roots like Licorice can stay vibrant for up to two years — still ready to fill your kitchen with that familiar earthy scent when the water simmers.
