Basic Principles of Collecting Medicinal Herbs
Collecting medicinal herbs in the Carpathians is not only a useful hobby but also an atmospheric way to spend time in nature. Before going on a hunt for herbs, it's important to learn the basic principles and rules.
- Determine the collection time: Each herb has its own blooming period, and that's when it's most rich in beneficial substances.
- Adhere to collection rules: It's necessary to choose only healthy plants, cutting carefully with scissors or a knife to avoid damaging the root.
- Consider the location: Some plants grow better in sunny clearings, others in the shade of the forest.
Popular Medicinal Herbs of the Carpathians
The Carpathians are known for a variety of medicinal plants that can be found on their meadows and forest tracts:
- Thyme: Famous for its antimicrobial properties.
- Linden: Linden blossom is used for soothing teas.
- Blueberry: Blueberry leaves and berries are used to improve vision and digestion.
- Chamomile: Known for its ability to soothe the gastrointestinal tract.
- Rosehip: Rosehip fruits are rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants.
Storage and Use of Collected Herbs
After collecting the herbs, they need to be properly dried and stored. Drying is best done in the shade, in a well-ventilated area. Dry herbs should be stored in fabric bags or paper packets. Medicinal herbs can be used in the form of teas, decoctions, tinctures.
Tours and Excursions for Herb Collection in the Carpathians
For those who wish to deepen their knowledge, specialized tours and excursions for collecting medicinal herbs are conducted in the Carpathians. During such tours, experienced guides will teach you to recognize plants and tell you about their properties.