When using herbs, is it important to know which part will have the active ingredients. To see the terminology of herbs, see our Terminology and Definitions page. Herbs are available in several different forms. You can also see our How to Use Bulk Herbs page for more information or our Products A-Z Page to see a list of all of our products. To clarify these forms, here are the terms and definitions that we use:
• Bark: The outer covering of the trunk and branches of a tree, usually corky, papery, or leathery.
• Berries: A fleshy fruit that contains small seeds, the whole pericarp of which is fleshy or pulpy. For more information on Berry Anatomy
• Fruit: The mature ovary of a seed plant.
• Leaf/Leaves: Usually flat, green structure of a plant where photosynthesis takes place and attaches to a stem or branch. For more information on Leaf Anatomy
• Powder: A fine grain mesh 80-120 grade (roughly the consistency of sugar to powder sugar).
• Rhizome: A plant stem that grows horizontally under or along the ground and often sends out roots and shoots. New plants develop from the shoots. For more information on Rhizome Anatomy
• Root: The bark of the underground part of a plant that serves to anchor it and supplies it with nourishment. For more information on Root Anatomy
• Root Bark: The protective covering surrounding the roots.
• Stem: The main ascending axis of a plant. For more information on Stem Anatomy
• Whole: Not cut.
• Bulb: Bulbs are a part of some plants like onions and tulips. For more information on Bulb Anatomy
- Peel: The outer part of some fruit, also called a rind. For more information on Peel Anatomy
- Seed: A part of most plants, used to propagate more of the plant of origin. For more information on Seed Anatomy
- Tuber: A growth of a plant that swells underground. For more information on Tuber Anatomy
- Flower: The budding end of some plants. Often colorful. For more information on Flower Anatomy
- Mushroom: Need a bit more explaining. Please see our Mushroom Page