: Independent shops like Charmington Holistics (Baltimore) or Hearth and Seoul (Denver) curate high-quality, often locally-grown herbs and provide expert guidance.

: Include the common name, Latin name, and date of purchase. Follow the FIFO (First In, First Out) method to use older stock first. Preservation Methods

: A member-owned cooperative since 1976. They are a primary supplier for many local health food stores and offer a full line of natural and organic products.

: Preserve the properties of herbs by creating tinctures (alcohol-based), oxymels (honey and vinegar), or herbal oils.

: Many herb farmers sell dried bundles or large fresh bunches during the growing season. This is the best way to "cut out the middleman" and build relationships with growers. Storage & Preservation Guide