Description
Controlled dehydration of herb bundles concentrates volatile oils while preserving cellular structure.
Technical
Hydrodiffusion drives water evaporation while terpenes (limonene, thymol) concentrate through selective permeability of plant cuticles. Lignin polymerization maintains structural integrity during moisture loss.
Culinary Significance
Essential for developing intense herbal flavors in rubs, infusions, and bouquet garni without bitter tannin release.
Science
Primary Reaction
Transpiration and water loss
Parameters
Temperature
25°C optimal
20°C to 30°C range
Low temperature to preserve volatile oils
Time
5 days
2 days – 7 days
Equipment
Drying rackPaper bagsTwine