Nettle

Perhaps we can look at it more usefully though as a superfood or simply as an extremely healthy vegetable or salad crop.  Nettle contains large quantities of iron, Vitamins A and C, iron, potassium, calcium and magnesium.  It is therefore recommended for people with anaemia (iron deficiency).

It is one of those paradoxes so often found in nature, and especially in the study of herbs and plants and their uses that a plant famous for causing pain can also be used to relieve pain (ie as an analgesic).

Antimicrobial, cleansing and as a tonic .

Nettle is a traditional antimicrobial and antiseptic.  The infused liquor can be used to hygienically cleanse surfaces or parts of the body (such as a wound) if a proper antiseptic is not available.

Nettle is also excellent for detoxifying the body and as a general tonic.  It is supposed to be very useful if you are suffering a hangover after over-indulging the night before, or if you have recently stopped smoking and want to cleanse your body of the poisons contained in cigarettes.

25 ailments said to be cured by Nettle.

The Greeks used Nettle. Then the Romans used it.  Then in mediaeval Europe they used Nettle for virtually any ailment you can name.  Here, for your convenience and edification, is a consolidated list of problems that Nettle has been credited at various times with solving or at least mitigating. Pregnant women should not use nettle as it affects the menstrual cycle and could lead to miscarriage in extreme cases.

Nettle may interfere with blood thinners, diabetes and heart medications, and lower blood pressure.

Do not brew the nettle too strong.  There have been cases of the decoction producing a burning sensation across the body when it has been steeped too strongly and for too long.  This will not occur in normal use, especially as directed above.

Eating old plants that have not been cooked for long enough can cause kidney damage.  (As mentioned above, the old leaves are gritty and contain poisonous crystals).

Just so you know, our customers often buy Dandelion and Raspberry Leaves with Nettle because they share some important properties.

Nettle Tea may be highly nutritious.  It may also have various medicinal benefits.  But what interests us most about it is that it tastes delicious!

Nettle has a pleasing natural sweetness and richness and is a very satisfying drink.  If you have never tasted it, you really should do so, and I would be most surprised if you did not enjoy it and want to come back for more.

You can brew Nettle Tea just like normal tea.  Place one heaped teaspoon of dried Nettle (as supplied by All About Tea) per person in a warmed pot and add fresh, boiling water. Allow to steep for 5 min (or longer if preferred). Strain into mugs and enjoy.

The recommended quantity per day is 4 cups.  You should also drink additional water when enjoying Nettle Tea as it is a diuretic.