Drying as a preservation strategy for medicinal plants: Physicochemical and functional outcomes for food and human health

Drying is one of the most commonly employed preservation techniques for medicinal plants, significantly influencing their physicochemical and functional properties. This review investigates the impact of various drying methods on the chemical composition, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, and overall quality of medicinal plants. These changes can diminish the therapeutic potential of the plants, thereby limiting their effectiveness in food applications and human health remedies. However, certain drying techniques are shown to better preserve these functional properties. The review discusses the integration of dried medicinal plants into functional foods, nutraceuticals, and supplements, showcasing their potential in promoting health and preventing diseases. The industrial significance of these approaches is in their capacity to prolong the period that a product can be stored, guarantee the safety of food, and satisfy consumers' desires for items derived from nature. Nevertheless, there are still obstacles to achieving a harmonious equilibrium between cost-efficiency, scalability, and environmental sustainability. By understanding the effects of different drying methods, this review aims to guide future research and industrial applications for maximizing the health benefits of medicinal plants.