Herb preparation involves the process of cleaning, drying, and storing herbs for culinary or medicinal use. Fresh herbs are typically rinsed under cold water to remove dirt and insects. After washing, they can be chopped, minced, or left whole, depending on the intended use. Once prepared, herbs can be dried by hanging them upside down in a cool, dark place or using a dehydrator. Properly dried herbs should be stored in airtight containers away from light and moisture to maintain their flavor and potency. This method is commonly used for herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary.