Our common stinging nettle – Urtica dioica – which grows and flourishes across the entire country is a unique gift from nature. Nettle leaves are rich in chlorophyll and minerals such as iron, chromium, zinc, copper, magnesium, silicon, cobalt, and calcium. Nettles are also rich in vitamins including A, E, D, C, and K. Nettle has been used in natural medicine for centuries, dating back to ancient Greece. Among other things, it has been consumed 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 provides nourishment and energy to the entire system. It is an herb that is extremely 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 when there is an excess of acid.
Nettle for Women
Nettles are a wonderful plant-based friend for all women during various life stages from adolescence to menopause. As a "uterine tonic" for menstrual problems such as PMS, excessive bleeding, anemia, fatigue, and night sweats. Nettle is particularly rich in iron and chlorophyll, making it an excellent means 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 luster and nourishment to both skin and hair.
Infusion, Extract, or Powder?
An effective way to consume nettle is via an infusion, a powder, or an extract.
Nettle infusion
An infusion draws out lots of minerals, especially magnesium from the nettle. Here's how to make it: 15 grams of dried herb to 1/2 liter of freshly boiled water. Let it steep under a lid in a pot for at least 4 hours (heat off). Store in the refrigerator, you can drink 2-4 cups a day, or use it 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 delicious to mix in a little water or sprinkle on porridge.
Read here how you can make a beneficial face mask with nettle.
When should you be careful with nettle?
During pregnancy, with diabetes, if you're taking blood thinners, and with kidney problems. Always consult a specialist if you are uncertain.
Fresh Nettles
In Sweden, we can harvest nettles from April to October. In terms of taste, the tender shoots in spring are preferable – but as a source of nutrition, 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. It's a good idea to chop the leaves very finely. They can also be frozen, dried, or made into extracts for consumption throughout the rest of the year. If you haven't harvested your own nettles, you can always purchase dried nettle or nettle powder.
Here is a nettle pesto recipe that you can save for spring: Ingredients:
100 grams stinging nettles
1/2 dl fresh mint leaves
1 garlic clove – chopped
1 dl pine nuts, roasted
2 tablespoons lemon juice
0.5 dl olive oil
1/2 dl thoroughly grated organic parmesan
– or if you are vegan, 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
salt & black pepper
How to make it?
Place the freshly picked nettles in a large bowl of cold water. Use gloves – place the nettles in the water and let them sit there for 5 minutes.
Pull the leaves off the stems and discard the stems.
Place the nettle leaves in boiling water and cook for 1 minute.
Drain and spread the nettles on a baking sheet. Let cool completely.
Press out as much water as possible and chop coarsely.
Place nettles in a powerful blender or food processor with mint, garlic, pine nuts, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
Process until the mixture has formed a paste.
Pour the olive oil into the machine while it's running. Place in a bowl and mix in the cheese.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
How do you like your nettle?
