Why whole rather than ground. Whole herbs keep their aromatic compounds far longer. A ground powder starts losing potency from the moment it is milled; a whole dried leaf or root holds it for months. If you use herbs slowly, buying whole and grinding small amounts as needed gives you noticeably better material.

How they are dried. Shade-dried rather than sun-dried. It is slower and more expensive, but direct sun degrades the volatile oils that carry both aroma and activity.

How to use them. For a traditional kadha, simmer the herb in water until the volume reduces by half, strain, and drink warm. For infusions, steep in water just off the boil for five to ten minutes.

Store whole herbs in airtight jars away from light and moisture.