Nettle tea is said to clean out the entire intestinal tract while activating the body’s natural defense mechanisms. It is used as an overall health tonic and to treat high blood pressure, anemia, skin inflammations and more.
Nettle tea is relatively safe for children and adults, although it is always recommended that you consult a medical doctor before taking any new herb.
How to harvest nettles
If you touch any part of the plant, you will be stung. The sting is mildly painful and can last for hours. Wear gloves, long-sleeved shirt and long pants when hunting for nettles.Use a scissors or garden clippers to cut the top two bracts of leaves, leaving the rest of the plant to regenerate. Set a pot or bag alongside the plant and clip directly into the container.
Nettle tea – recipe:
- 1 cup nettle leaves
- 2 cups water
– Add water to your collected nettle leaves and heat to a near boil.
– Use about two cups of water for a cup of leaves; there’s no need to measure.
– You can make the tea stronger by steeping longer, or weaker by adding more water. Once the water is near boiling, reduce heat and simmer for a couple minutes.
– Pour through a small strainer and the tea is ready to drink.
Some people prefer a small bit of sugar added to the tea, but I find the taste is just fine without any additives.
Any new substance should be introduced gradually to your body. A cup or two of nettle tea per day is sufficient to enjoy the benefits which nettles offer. Those new to nettles should start out with small amounts.
