Storage for herbs

[slfcllednowhere]

So, I'm slowly building up a collection of herbs to use for spellwork and such, and I'm wondering if anyone has creative ways of storing them. Just throwing all the little bags in a shoebox or something doesn't feel appropriate.

Comments

[thewingsofisis]

I save old jars from herbs, pickles, salsa, etc., that we use all the time. Wash them and dry them well and bingo - better storage for spellwork herbs! :)

[saturn_returned]

Totally with you on saving old jars.

[alegwyni]

I second the craft store trunk idea. I live near a Micheal's Art and Craft and they had a sale a few months ago on small trunks. I got for about $20 a wooden trunk big enough to hold all of my altar stuff. It would be a great place to store jars of herbs or powders.

[raitei_amano]

I think you and I got the same thing, at the same time lol

[saturn_returned]

Go to a hobby lobby or other craft store. Buy one of those unfinished wooden boxes. Buy some paint, or something else to decorate it. Make your own Magic box.

Everyone should have a magic box.

[unheardwall]

old mason/sauce/ jars is where i stick mine.

[viron]

Keep in mind that dried herbs will last about 6 months before they lose their potency, and unground whole spices will last up to 2 years. According to Alton Brown of Good Eats, that is. Though I would assume that if herbs and spices are no longer prime for use in cooking, that they'd loose their magical potency as well, but don't quote me on that.

As for storage, just make sure your can/jar/tin/etc has an air tight seal and you keep it out of the light. I'd suggest using something opaque instead of transparent.

[mageoflamancha]

Hard to fight with Mr. Brown, as a general rule, if it doesn't look fit to eat it is not longer fit to cast with. Though I have made one sub-clause to this. Any herb to be ingested MUST be food grade (or better). However herbs for packets and potions, when need is dire and supply is low can be "fudged" a tad. Fresh mistletoe is just one of those plants that I can't even count on getting once a year- so I have needed to use not only dried, but OLD dried in spell work. When this happens before starting any other step of the spell, I find the best of what I have (or can get) and plan on charging the material up to as close to prime as possible. This has worked fairly well.
However, fresh supplies, stored dry and out of the light are best,(and easier.)