What we use from plants and when
Roots (radix), rhizomes (rhizoma), bulbs (bulbus) and tubers (tubera) – the underground parts of medicinal plants – are harvested in early spring, as soon as possible before the aerial parts develop, or in autumn after the above-ground parts have wilted.
The aerial parts (herba) of the plant are usually harvested just before full bloom or during the flowering period, when the concentration of active medicinal substances is highest.
Leaf buds (gemmae or turiones) are collected in early spring, at the beginning of vegetation, when they are still closed and rich in bioactive compounds.
The bark (cortex) is harvested in early spring, when it separates easily from the branches and stems, ensuring clean and efficient collection of the medicinal plant material.
The leaves (folium) are harvested after they have reached full development. They are collected whole, without crushing, because volatile substances and essential oils are lost when the leaves are broken or ground too early.
Flowers (flores) are harvested at different stages depending on the species: in some plants before opening, in others during full flowering, and in some just before wilting, to preserve their aroma and therapeutic properties.
Certain fruits (fructus) are harvested when fully ripe, while others are collected as they begin to dry, according to the specific requirements of each medicinal plant.
The seeds (semen) are harvested shortly before full maturity, then immediately spread out in thin layers to dry, preventing mold and preserving their germination and medicinal qualities.
All these types of vegetable raw materials from medicinal plants are dried immediately after harvesting to maintain their active principles, aroma and quality for later use.
For use of medicinal plants as such or in the form of herbal teas, tinctures, extracts and other natural remedies, the plant material must have the highest possible purity. Medicinal plants from areas treated with chemical pesticides, or from polluted zones such as industrial regions, parks, ornamental gardens and roadsides, are not used.
Before being prepared as infusions, decoctions, extracts or other herbal preparations, medicinal plants are washed with cold water, in the same way as fruits and vegetables, to remove dust and surface impurities.