Root Processing Decision Tree

Drying · Decoction · Tincturing · Roasting · Cellar Storage

Module 3 · Lesson 3.3 · Ozark Herbal Ecology · Autumn

START → What kind of root do you have?

1. Is the root AROMATIC or RESINOUS?

(e.g., elecampane, sassafras, wild ginger)

YES → Aromatic/Resinous Root

→ Does it have strong scent or resin pockets?

• YES → Tincture
  • Captures volatile oils + resins
  • Best for lung, circulatory, aromatic actions
• Optional: Light drying (low heat)
• Avoid: Roasting (destroys aromatics)

END PATH: Aromatic → Tincture

NO → Go to next branch

2. Is the root MINERAL‑DENSE or BITTER?

(e.g., yellow dock, dandelion)

YES → Mineral/Bitter Root

→ Do you want a nutritive or cleansing action?

• Nutritive / Mineral:

→ Decoction

• • Extracts minerals + bitters
  • Supports digestion, liver, blood-building
• Cleansing / Bitter:

→ Tincture

• • Captures bitter glycosides + anthraquinones

Optional: Dry for long-term storage

Avoid: Roasting (intensifies bitterness)

END PATH: Mineral/Bitter → Decoction or Tincture

NO → Go to next branch

3. Is the root STARCHY, SWEET, or MUCILAGINOUS?

(e.g., burdock, dandelion, chicory)

YES → Starchy/Moistening Root

→ Do you want a food-like or medicinal preparation?

• Food-like / Nourishing:

→ Roast

• • Deepens sweetness
  • Adds warmth
  • Great for coffee substitutes + broths
• Medicinal / Digestive / Lymphatic:

→ Decoction

• • Extracts inulin + mucilage
  • Supports gut + lymph

Optional: Dry for storage

Avoid: Tincture as primary method (loses mucilage)

END PATH: Starchy/Moistening → Roast or Decoction

NO → Go to next branch

4. Is the root THICK, FLESHY, or HARD TO DRY?

(e.g., burdock, elecampane, sassafras)

YES → Thick/Hard Root

→ Do you have a dehydrator?

• YES → Dehydrator Drying
  • 95–115°F
  • Best for dense roots
• NO → Chop very thin + Air Dry
  • Single layer
  • High airflow

Then choose preparation:

• Decoction (if nutritive)
• Tincture (if aromatic/resinous)

END PATH: Thick Root → Dehydrator/Air Dry → Prep

NO → Go to next branch

5. Do you want to STORE the root FRESH?

(e.g., burdock, dandelion, yellow dock)

YES → Fresh Storage

→ Do you have a cool, humid cellar?

• YES → Cellar Storage
  • Pack in damp sand/sawdust
  • 35–45°F
  • High humidity
• NO → Dry instead
  • Prevents mold

END PATH: Fresh Storage → Cellar or Dry

NO → Dry or Process Immediately

6. FINAL CHECK: What is your INTENDED USE?

If you want…

• Minerals → Decoction
• Bitters → Tincture
• Aromatics → Tincture
• Nourishment → Decoction or Roast
• Long-term storage → Drying
• Fresh texture → Cellar storage

One‑Page Summary (for quick reference)