As a leading provider of smoking and vaping accessories, Online Smoke recognises the growing popularity of herbs, both for recreational and medicinal purposes. Whether you're a seasoned user or new to the scene, you've probably wondered, "What's the best way to store my herb?" The quality, potency, and flavour of your herb depend significantly on your storage methods.

This post will walk you through the best ways to store your herb for optimal freshness and potency.

 

Why Proper Herb Storage Matters

Before we share our top storage tips, let's discuss why correct storage is crucial. Over time, exposure to light, heat, air, and humidity can degrade your herb.

Light

Herb can undergo photodegradation. Sunlight's ultraviolet rays can breakdown the chemicals in your herb, diminishing its potency and changing its flavour.

Heat

High temperatures can dry out your herb, leading to a harsher smoke and less enjoyable experience. Heat can also evaporate the terpenes, reducing the unique aroma of your herb.

Air

While a certain amount of oxygen exposure is beneficial during curing and ageing, too much can hasten the degradation process, affecting flavour and impact.

Humidity

Storing herb in a damp environment can lead to mould and mildew, while overly dry conditions can cause your herb to lose its essential oils and turn brittle.

 

Online Smoke's Tips for Herb Storage

1. Choose the Right Container

Ditch the plastic bag. Plastic can generate a static charge that degrades the trichomes—the small, crystal-like structures on herb buds responsible for producing its chemicals. At Online Smoke, we recommend airtight glass jars, which won't let moisture or odours in or out, keeping your herb fresher for longer.

2. Optimal Humidity Levels

Proper humidity control is critical to preventing mould growth and preserving your herb's quality. Using two-way humidity control packs in your storage jars can help regulate moisture levels.

3. Cool, Dark Storage

Protect your herb from light and heat by storing your containers in a cool, dark place. A dark cupboard or drawer is perfect for this.

4. Separate Strains

Different herb strains each have distinct flavours and aromas. Preserve these unique characteristics by storing each strain in its own container.

 

What to Avoid in Herb Storage

Fridge and Freezer Storage

Contrary to popular belief, the refrigerator or freezer isn't the place for your herb. The humidity fluctuations in a fridge can lead to mould, and freezing temperatures can cause trichomes to become brittle and break off.

Herb with Grinders or Pipes

Resin residues from grinders or pipes can taint the flavour and aroma of your herb. Store your herb separately from your smoking accessories to keep it fresh and untainted.

Tobacco Humidors

These humidors often use cedar wood, which can affect your herb's flavour. They might also over humidify your herb, leading to mould.

 

Storing Edibles and Concentrates

Like herbs, edibles and herb concentrates also require proper storage to maintain their potency and flavour. Store edibles following the guidelines on their packaging, generally in a cool, dark place. If they contain perishable ingredients, consider refrigeration. Store concentrates in small, airtight glass or silicone containers, keeping them in a cool, dark environment, just like herb flowers.

The Takeaway on Herb Storage

Properly storing your herb can preserve its quality, flavour, and potency, giving you the best bang for your buck. By using the right containers, managing humidity, storing in cool and dark conditions, and separating strains, you can keep your herb fresh and enjoyable for longer.

Avoiding common storage pitfalls also helps maintain the integrity of your herb. So, remember to store smart and smoke happy! While good storage may require some effort and understanding, the enhanced potency, aroma, and flavour of well-stored herb are well worth it.

 

Note: it is illegal to sell or supply tobacco products to young people under the age of 18. Please familiarise yourself with the laws and regulations within Australia.