How to Dry or Dehydrate Red Clover

Red Clover can be dried to preserve it for later use. Herbal tea is a wonderful way to use dried red clover. Dried red clover blossoms are frequently found in health food stores, however, these dried blossoms are often overly brown and lack potency. To maximize the benefits and potency of red clover follow the following steps to dry them.

Instructions

• 1

  Harvest Red Clover Blossoms

  Red clover can be harvested May through early September throughout the United States. Pick the clover blossoms when they are bright purple, before they begin to brown.

• 2

  Rinse the Red Clover Blossoms

  Rinse the red clover blossoms. Drain them well in a strainer.

• 3

  Drying and Dehydrating the Clover Blossoms

  Immediately after rinsing and draining the water from the blossoms, lay them out on a flat surface where air can easily circulate around them. They should be stored in an area without sunlight that is between 85 and 95 degrees. Sunlight will brown the blossoms and deteriorate their nutritional and medicinal value. Allow the red clover blossoms to dry in this area for 48 hours.

• 4

  Storing Red Clover Blossoms

  After 48 hours have passed, check the red clover blossoms to ensure they are completely dry. Store them in an air tight container and label the red clover blossoms with the contents and date of preservation. Well dried clover blossoms retain their beautiful purple hue!