Dried Pansy/Hearts Ease Herb (Viola Tricolor)

Dried botanicals are supplied in several physical forms. The most suitable option depends on how the ingredient will be used.

Cut botanicals and powders behave differently during preparation and should be selected according to the intended application.

Choose a cut form when easy straining or visible botanical material is important. Choose a powder when a finer, more easily incorporated ingredient is required.

The following general method applies only to botanicals specifically identified as suitable for food, tea or infusion use.

1. Place the required quantity of dried botanical material in a cup or teapot.
2. Pour freshly boiled water over the botanical material.
3. Cover and allow it to steep for the appropriate length of time.
4. Strain thoroughly before serving.
5. Adjust the amount and steeping time according to the specific botanical.

Leaves and flowers generally infuse more quickly than dense roots, bark, berries and seeds. Harder botanical materials may require a longer preparation method.

Botanicals can be combined according to their aroma, flavour, colour, texture and intended application.

• Leaves and herbs: often provide the main character of a botanical blend.
• Flowers: can contribute colour, texture and floral aroma.
• Roots and bark: commonly provide deeper, earthier characteristics.
• Seeds and berries: may contribute spice, texture, colour or distinctive flavour.
• Powders: disperse differently from whole or cut material and may settle or remain suspended.

Begin with small quantities, keep a record of the ingredients used and adjust the blend gradually. Confirm that every ingredient is suitable for the intended application before combining products.

Proper storage helps dried botanical materials retain their natural appearance, aroma and quality.

• Keep products tightly sealed when not in use.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Protect botanicals from moisture, steam and humidity.
• Use clean, completely dry utensils when handling the product.
• Keep strongly aromatic products separately where practical.
• Label repacked products with their name and packing date.
• Use older stock before newly purchased stock.

Discontinue use if the botanical develops unexpected moisture, visible deterioration, an unusual odour or another noticeable change in quality.

Dried botanicals are natural agricultural materials. Their colour, aroma, texture, cut size and general appearance may vary between harvests and batches.

Powdered products may settle during transport, while whole or cut products may contain naturally occurring variations in particle size. These differences do not necessarily indicate a change in the stated product quantity.

Refer to the individual product description for its botanical name, physical form, intended applications and any product-specific information.

• Read the complete product information before use.
• Use the botanical only for its stated intended applications.
• Do not assume that every natural botanical is suitable for ingestion.
• Do not exceed recommended preparation or formulation levels.
• Avoid inhaling dust generated by finely powdered materials.
• Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes.
• Keep botanical products out of reach of children and pets.
• Discontinue use if irritation or an adverse reaction occurs.

Anyone who is pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, managing a medical condition or uncertain about a botanical should consult an appropriately qualified professional before use.