If you want to keep lemon balm fresh and flavorful for a long time, drying it is the best way to do that. You can dry lemon balm by air-drying, using a dehydrator, or even an oven, all of which help preserve its scent and taste. This makes it easy to enjoy lemon balm in tea or recipes whenever you want.
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Drying lemon balm is simple and doesn’t take much effort. Knowing the right steps will help you keep the herb’s natural lemony aroma and health benefits for months. Once you learn how to dry it properly, you’ll always have lemon balm ready to use.
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Best Methods to Dry Lemon Balm
You can dry lemon balm in several ways to keep its flavor and aroma. Each method has steps that help preserve the delicate leaves without losing their fresh scent. Choosing the right drying method depends on your tools, time, and how much lemon balm you want to save.
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Air Drying Indoors
Air drying is simple and low-cost. Start by washing your lemon balm and patting it dry gently. Then, strip the lower leaves off the stems.
Tie the stems together with string or a rubber band. Hang the bundle upside down in a warm, dry place with good airflow, but out of direct sunlight.
This method usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks. Make sure the air is not too humid to avoid mold. When the leaves feel crisp and crumble easily, your lemon balm is ready.
Related Article: Growing Lemon Balm in Pots
Using a Dehydrator
Using a dehydrator is faster and more controlled. Set the temperature to about 95°F (35°C) to protect the herb’s flavor.
Spread the lemon balm leaves in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Keep the leaves from overlapping to dry evenly.
It usually takes 1 to 4 hours. Check periodically because over-drying can make the leaves lose their scent. Once dry and crisp, store your lemon balm in an airtight container.
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Oven Drying Techniques
Oven drying works well if you don’t have much lemon balm. Preheat your oven to the lowest setting, ideally around 95°F (35°C) to 110°F (43°C).
Place the leaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer. Leave the oven door slightly open to allow moisture to escape.
Check the leaves every 15 to 20 minutes. It can take 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on your oven. Be careful not to overheat, which can burn or reduce flavor.
Microwave Drying Tips
Microwaving lemon balm is the quickest method but needs close attention. Spread a single layer of leaves between two paper towels.
Microwave on low power for 30 seconds, then check the leaves. Repeat in 15-second intervals until they feel dry but not burnt.
This process usually takes 1 to 3 minutes total. Let the leaves cool before handling. Use this method if you want lemon balm quickly but in smaller amounts.
Storing and Using Dried Lemon Balm
To keep your dried lemon balm fresh and flavorful, focus on how you store it and how you can enjoy it in different ways. Proper storage helps maintain its aroma and potency. Plus, there are simple ideas to add it into your daily routine or recipes.
Proper Storage Solutions
Store your dried lemon balm in airtight containers to avoid moisture and air exposure. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids or sealable mylar bags work best. Keep the containers in a cool, dark place away from sunlight and heat to preserve the oils and flavor.
If you want to label your jars, include the drying date for easy tracking. Avoid plastic bags that are not resealable, since air leaks can make the leaves lose quality faster. Every time you open the container, close it tightly to maintain freshness.
Shelf Life and Freshness
Dried lemon balm can last up to a year when stored correctly. Over time, it will slowly lose its aroma and strength but will still be safe to use. Check for any signs of mold or musty smells before using if it’s been stored for a long time.
To test if it is still good, crush a leaf between your fingers. If the lemon scent is strong, the herb is still fresh. If the smell is weak or stale, it’s best to replace it with a new batch.
Creative Uses for Dried Lemon Balm
You can easily make lemon balm tea by steeping crushed dried leaves in hot water. It works well as hot tea or iced tea for a refreshing drink. Try adding a tablespoon to a pot of hot water and let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
Dried lemon balm also works in baking recipes, syrups, or homemade herbal remedies like salves or tinctures. Sprinkle some into oatmeal, smoothies, or use it to flavor sauces. Crushing it before use helps release its citrusy aroma and flavor.
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