Whether you’re new to cooking with herbs or an herb enthusiast, you must know how to decarb your herbs to get the full benefits of their healing properties.
Decarboxylation or decarbing is the activation process that takes place when you heat or cook herbs to release their essential oils and compounds.
These compounds can have medicinal benefits, such as reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and fighting infections.
In this article, we’ll show you how to decarb your herbs to get the maximum benefits.
Choose Fresh Herbs:
Selecting fresh herbs is the first step in decarbing. Whether you use rosemary, oregano, or basil, it is essential to use fresh herbs for maximum effectiveness.
Fresh herbs contain more essential oils, making the decarbing process more potent. Look for fresh herbs with firm stems, bright leaves, and a good aroma.
Preheat Your Oven:
Preheating the oven is crucial to ensure proper decarboxylation. The ideal temperature for most herbs ranges between 200 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
Avoid exceeding 300 degrees, or your herbs may burn. Preheating the oven lets the herbs reach the optimal temperature for decarboxylation and activates their natural compounds.
Prepare the Herbs:
Rinse the herbs under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Lay the dry herbs on a baking sheet and cover them with foil.
Doing this ensures that the herbs remain moist, and no chemicals escape the foil wrapping.
Remember to cut or break the herbs into small pieces before putting them in the oven since it helps in the decarbing process and also ensures consistency across the herbs.
Bake the Herbs:
After preheating your oven and preparing the herbs, it's time to bake. Place the baking sheet with the herbs in the oven and leave them for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the herb.
Some herbs may take longer than others. You can check the progress of the herbs regularly and turn the herbs occasionally to ensure even heating.
When the herbs turn dark green and crumble easily, they are ready for use.
Store the Decarbed Herbs:
After decarbing, save the herbs in an airtight container, and store them in a cool, dark place.
Proper storage ensures the herbs remain potent for an extended period. You can use the decarbed herbs to make tea, oils, or other herbal extracts.
Also, keep in mind that decarbing alters the taste and potency of the herbs.
Thus, it is best to experiment with different herbs and decarbing times to achieve your preferred end result.
Want an easier way to decarb herbs for maximum benefits?
Then try our MagicalButter Elevated Wellness Bundle for maximum health benefits, without all the fuss!
Click here to get started today! >>>
