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How to Make Freeze-Dried Lotus Stems

The application of freeze-drying technology in processing Chinese medicinal herbs is becoming increasingly widespread, demonstrating significant advantages, particularly in the treatment of lotus stems. Known as the stalks of lotus leaves or flowers, lotus stems are an essential component in Chinese medicine with properties that help clear heat, relieve summer heat, and promote water metabolism. To maximize the preservation of their medicinal properties and extend their shelf life, freeze-drying technology offers an innovative solution for the processing and storage of lotus stems.

Before undergoing freeze-drying, fresh lotus stems are naturally hydrated, soft, elastic, and vibrant in color, ranging from green to light yellow. Typically, lotus stems are harvested, cut into sections, and evenly spread out to dry in the sun. However, sun drying is highly weather-dependent, making drying technology critical. Pharmaceutical freeze-dryers have gained popularity for their excellent preservation and retention of medicinal efficacy. The core of freeze-drying lies in removing water content from lotus stems under low temperature and vacuum conditions, thus prolonging their shelf life.

How to Make Freeze-Dried Lotus Stems

Process of Freeze-Drying Lotus Stems

1.Pre-treatment: The lotus stems are cleaned and cut into suitable sizes for freeze-drying.

2.Freezing: The prepared stems are quickly frozen at extremely low temperatures, typically between -40°C and -50°C, to form ice crystals within the stems.

3.Vacuum Sublimation: The frozen stems are placed in a pharmaceutical freeze-dryer, where, under a vacuum environment and gentle heating, the ice crystals directly sublimate into water vapor, effectively removing moisture from the stems. During this process, the structure and active components of the lotus stems remain largely intact.

4.Post-treatment: The freeze-dried stems are sealed in moisture-proof packaging to prevent rehydration. These processed stems are lightweight, easy to store and transport, and can be rehydrated to a nearly fresh state when needed.

After freeze-drying, lotus stems take on a lightweight and brittle form. This transformation occurs because the moisture is entirely removed under low temperatures and vacuum conditions, leaving the structure intact but significantly lighter and more fragile. While the color of freeze-dried lotus stems may darken slightly, their overall shape and texture remain well-preserved.

More importantly, the application of freeze-drying technology is not limited to lotus stems but can be extended to the preservation and processing of other medicinal herbs. For instance, precious herbs such as Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), Astragalus, and ginseng can also benefit from freeze-drying, ensuring their efficacy and quality remain intact. The promotion and application of this technology play a vital role in enhancing the preservation of Chinese medicinal herbs, improving their efficacy, and boosting their market competitiveness.

If you are interested in our Freeze Dryer Machine or have any questions, please feel free to Contact us. As a professional manufacturer of freeze dryer machine, we offer a variety of specifications, including household, laboratory, pilot, and production models. Whether you need equipment for home use or larger-scale industrial equipment, we can provide you with the highest quality products and services.


Post time: Jan-15-2025