Regardless of the preferred drying method of lemon balm, it must be properly prepared.
The aroma content of lemon balm is at its highest level shortly before blooming in the morning. If you plan to dry the herbs, pick them at this time of day.
The collected sprigs of lemon balm are washed under running cold water. Damaged parts of the plant are carefully removed. Then put the lemon balm on a kitchen towel where it dries for 1 day.
Air drying lemon balm is one of the classic herb drying methods. The method does not require financial investment for special equipment and is easy to implement.
The branches are tied in small knots and hung in a dark place protected from moisture. The herb will dry out within two weeks.
Another option is to quickly dry it in a dehydrator. This way the beneficial lemon balm retains its aroma significantly.
After just 6-8 hours, the rich leaves dry perfectly. You can speed up the process, by turning the lemon balm over from time to time.
Store the dried lemon balm herb in a clean jar in a place out of direct sunlight.
