How long is the shelf life of Sichuan Fritillaria in the refrigerator

Sichuan Fritillaria can generally be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 years, but the actual shelf life is affected by factors such as storage methods, medicinal quality, packaging sealing, humidity control, and temperature fluctuations.

1. Storage method

Sichuan Fritillaria needs to be sealed and refrigerated for storage. It is recommended to use glass jars or food grade sealed bags for packaging to avoid direct contact with the inner walls of the refrigerator. Medicinal herbs are prone to oxidation and deterioration when in contact with air, and poor sealing can lead to the loss of medicinal efficacy. If black spots or mold are found on the surface of medicinal herbs, they should be discarded immediately.

2. Quality of Medicinal Materials

Fresh and high-quality Fritillaria thunbergii is conical in shape, with a white and slightly yellow surface and a solid texture. If there are insect infestations or excessive sulfur fumigation when purchasing, even refrigeration will shorten the shelf life. When making a purchase, it is advisable to choose products from legitimate channels that have no pungent odor and a powdery cross-section.

3. Packaging Sealing

Vacuum packed Sichuan Fritillaria can have a refrigerated shelf life of up to 3 years, while ordinary plastic bag packaging is recommended to be used up within 1 year. Seal immediately after each medication collection to prevent water vapor from entering. Food desiccants can be placed inside the container and replaced promptly after absorbing moisture.

4. Humidity Control

The humidity in the refrigerator compartment should be maintained at 45% -55%, as high humidity can cause mold growth. Sichuan Fritillaria can be stored in layers with quicklime bags, but direct contact should be avoided. If the medicinal herbs become soft due to moisture, they can be dried in the shade and then refrigerated again, but there will be some loss of efficacy.

5. Temperature fluctuation

It is recommended to stabilize the refrigerator temperature between 0-4 ℃, as frequent opening and closing of doors can cause temperature differences. During summer, medicinal herbs can be stored deep in the refrigerator, away from the refrigerator door. Although freezing storage can extend the shelf life, the texture is prone to looseness after thawing, which affects the effectiveness of decoction.

When using Fritillaria thunbergii in daily life, it is recommended to check the condition of the medicinal herbs after each use. Normal ones should have a slight bitter almond odor. If it is used for relieving cough and resolving phlegm, it can be combined with snow pear, honey and other ingredients to enhance the lungs moistening effect. Long term stored medicinal herbs can be observed for their solubility before use. High quality Fritillaria thunbergii should be in a milky white gel like state after being boiled in water. It is recommended for those with weak and cold constitution to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner before use and avoid using it together with aconite medicinal herbs. Regularly organize the medicine cabinet during storage, and it is recommended to store different batches of medicinal materials separately and label the purchase date.