Our common stinging nettle – Urtica dioica – which grows and thrives all over the country, is a unique gift from nature. Nettle leaves are rich in chlorophyll and minerals such as iron, chromium, zinc, copper, magnesium, silica, cobalt, and calcium. Nettles are also rich in vitamins A, E, D, C, and K.
Nettle has been used in natural medicine for centuries and dates back to ancient Greece. Among other things, it has been taken to:
- balance blood sugar.
- support the immune system.
- support the nervous system.
- nourish the hormonal system.
- support joint health.
- support digestion.
- support the kidneys.
- support the urinary tract.
- help with skin problems.
Energy
Nettle nourishes and energizes the entire system. It is an herb very suitable for exhaustion and long-term fatigue. Nettle provides steady energy to the whole body and supports all glands and organs. It is alkaline and helps the body with excess acidity.
Nettle for women
Nettles are a wonderful plant-based friend for all women through several life stages from adolescence to menopause. As a “uterine tonic” for menstrual issues like PMS, heavy bleeding, anemia, fatigue, and night sweats. Nettle is especially rich in iron and chlorophyll, making it an excellent agent to stimulate blood formation.
Nettle for skin problems
Nettle is also an excellent choice to try for skin problems, such as eczema. The herb supports skin healing and also provides radiance and nourishment to both skin and hair.
Infusion, extract, or powder?
An effective way to get a lot of nettle is through an infusion, a powder, or an extract.
Nettle infusion
An infusion extracts lots of minerals, especially magnesium from the nettle.
How to prepare: 15 grams of dried herb per 1/2 liter of freshly boiled water. Let steep covered in a pot for at least 4 hours (heat off). Store in the refrigerator, can be consumed 2-4 cups per day, or used as a base in a smoothie. Remember to also drink water as nettle makes you thirsty.
Nettle extract
An extract is a highly concentrated bioavailable herb. It bypasses the digestive process and quickly enters the bloodstream. This makes it a very effective way for the body to absorb medicinal principles from herbs.
Nettle powder
A powder is simply the whole herb ground into powder. It’s nice to mix with a little water or sprinkle on porridge.
Read here how you can make a nourishing face mask with nettle.
When should you be cautious with nettle?
Yes, during pregnancy, diabetes, if you take blood thinners, and with kidney problems. Always consult a specialist if you’re unsure.
Fresh nettles
In Sweden, we can harvest nettles from April to October. Flavor-wise, the tender shoots in spring are preferable – but as a source of nutrients, it’s fine to harvest as long as they’re growing – except when they’re flowering; then they should be avoided. Remember to wear gloves when picking them.
Nettles can be eaten fresh, in soups, salads, or smoothies. Feel free to chop the leaves very finely. They can also be frozen, dried, or made into extracts to be consumed throughout the year. If you haven’t harvested your own nettles, you can always buy dried nettle or nettle powder.
Here is a nettle pesto recipe you can save for spring:
Ingredients:
100 grams stinging nettles
1/2 dl fresh mint leaves
1 garlic clove – chopped
1 dl pine nuts, toasted
2 tablespoons lemon juice
0.5 dl olive oil
1/2 dl finely grated organic Parmesan
– or if you’re vegan, 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
salt & black pepper
How do you do it?
- Put the freshly picked nettles in a large bowl of cold water. Use gloves – place the nettles in the water and let them sit for 5 minutes.
- Pull the leaves off the stems and discard the stems.
- Put the nettle leaves in boiling water and cook for 1 minute.
- Drain and spread the nettles on a baking sheet. Let cool completely.
- Squeeze out as much water as possible and chop coarsely.
- Put nettles in a powerful blender or food processor with mint, garlic, pine nuts, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
- Process until the mixture forms a paste.
- Pour the olive oil into the machine while it’s running.
Put in a bowl and mix in the cheese. - Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
How do you like your nettle?
