An experimental study of drying kinetics and mathematical modeling in parsley (Petroselinum crispum L.) and coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) leaves with an emphasis on the stabilization and sustainability of essential oils

Document Type : Original Article

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Faculty of Agricultural and Natural Resources, University of Torbat Heydarieh, Torbat Heydarieh, Iran

10.22092/mpt.2025.371304.1207

Abstract

Moisture removal after harvesting medicinal plants is a key stage that preserves the quantity and quality of their active ingredients. This study investigates the impact of various drying methods on drying duration, final moisture content, and essential oil percentage of parsley (Petroselinum crispum L.) and coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). The methods included non-thermal approaches (shade, cold airflow, indirect sunlight, direct sunlight), thermal drying at 50, 60, and 70 °C, and an irradiation method using a microwave at 900 W. Drying continued until the moisture ratio reached 0.1 on a dry basis (MR = 0.1, d.b.). The treatments had a significant effect on drying time in both parsley and coriander. The microwave method produced the shortest thermal drying times (40 min for parsley and 30 min for coriander), and direct sunlight gave the shortest non-thermal time (5 days). In contrast, the shade method yielded the highest essential oil percentages, 0.14% in parsley and 0.26% in coriander, which differed significantly from the other treatments. Mathematical modeling revealed that the modified Henderson and Pabis and logarithmic models provided the best fit for parsley and coriander, respectively, in both non-thermal and thermal drying scenarios. Considering all results, drying parsley and coriander leaves with a microwave and direct sunlight offered the shortest drying time, whereas shade drying yielded the highest essential oil content; thus, the choice depends on the balance between speed and quantity goals in processing these aromatic herbs.

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