I think it would be good to have shield for not getting attacked from monsters if character gets attacked while gathering herb. A shield to cancel attacks from wandering monsters i mean.. 1/3 of gather time would be good enough.
Don't go AFK and it is no issue Pay attention You have plenty of time to see when a Monster is coming Close... No need for anything but useing your Eyes and Common sense here.....
Just a Thorn in the Heads of all those awesome Humans.. I grow bigger in their heads everyday.. I love them all..