Cleaning Roots

[Edward E. WaldenStudent]

We have been out collecting various roots. Don’t know about other peoples roots, but ours are either dirty or muddy.

We have soaked them and washed them off prior to drying them but I’m wondering just how clean do the roots need to be?

How long can I soak them before I’m loosing the medicine into the wash water?

Do they need to look like boiled potatoes when we’re done?

Should I use Terri’s tooth brush to clean out the fine crevices? :big grin:

[IdahoHerbalist]

Basically, whatever you are comfortable with as long as you don’t scrape up the root skin too much.

One thing I have started doing with my roots is coarse chopping and running them through a food grinder before drying them. A LOT easier on the Vitamix blender.

[Edward E. WaldenStudentTopic Author]

IdahoHerbalist wrote: Basically, whatever you are comfortable with as long as you don’t scrape up the root skin too much.

One thing I have started doing with my roots is coarse chopping and running them through a food grinder before drying them. A LOT easier on the Vitamix blender.

Sounds like a good idea.

What do you use for a food grinder?

[IdahoHerbalist]

I bought one of those counter top multi attachment things at a gRage sale for five bucks. Missing all but the grinder parts. Worked great until a couple of weeks ago I blew out one of the plastic internal parts.

Need to find another one. I guess I could use the kitchen aide grinder that my wife never uses! :confused: I would have to be careful since they do use the mixer part still.

Reminds me…. Off to ebay!!!!!

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

It slices! It Dices! It makes Julien fries!

All of the above are good ideas for pre-dried roots. The other trick (should you forget to pre-chop) is to throw the roots in the tincture for a few weeks and then blender them. Then let them soak again for 2 weeks like a normal tincture. I’ve done this with chunks of balsamroot (Balsomorrhiza sagitta…the most formidable of roots).

Doc

Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

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