Stinging Nettle Tea Recipe

Stinging nettle is often hailed as one of the most nutritious plants on Earth. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it an excellent addition to a healthy diet. One of the simplest and most beneficial ways to enjoy stinging nettle is by making tea. Here’s a recipe for stinging nettle tea:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried nettle leaves)
• 2 cups water
• Honey or lemon (optional, for taste)

Instructions:

1. Harvesting and Preparing Nettle:
   • If using fresh nettle, wear gloves to avoid getting stung while harvesting. Carefully pick young leaves and tender stems.
   • Rinse the fresh leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or insects.
   • If using dried nettle, you can skip this step.
2. Boiling Water:
   • Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan or kettle.
3. Brewing the Tea:
   • Once the water is boiling, remove it from heat.
   • Add the fresh nettle leaves or dried nettle to the hot water. Use about 1 cup of fresh leaves or 1 tablespoon of dried leaves.
   • Cover and let the tea steep for about 10-15 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the flavor and nutritional content.
4. Straining and Serving:
   • Strain the tea into a cup to remove the leaves.
   • If desired, add a teaspoon of honey or a slice of lemon to enhance the flavor.
5. Enjoy:
   • Enjoy your stinging nettle tea warm. It can also be served chilled over ice for a refreshing drink.

Notes:

• Nutritional Benefits: Stinging nettle is known for its high content of vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins. It also contains minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, as well as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Safety Tip: While stinging nettle is safe for most people, some may experience allergic reactions. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before adding a new herbal remedy to your routine, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have any existing health conditions.

This simple yet nutritious tea is a great way to incorporate the health benefits of stinging nettle into your diet!