Fresh or dried stinging nettle leaves (1-2 teaspoons dried or 1-2 tablespoons fresh per cup of water)
Water
Optional: Honey, lemon, or other flavorings (to taste)
Instructions:
Harvesting Nettle (if using fresh leaves):
Safety Note: Always wear gloves when handling fresh stinging nettle leaves, as they can sting and irritate the skin. The stinging hairs become harmless once the leaves are dried or cooked.
Harvest young nettle leaves in spring or early summer. Choose leaves from plants that have not yet flowered.
Preparing the Leaves:
If using fresh leaves, rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt or insects.
If using dried leaves, they are ready to use as-is.
Boiling Water:
Bring water to a boil. Use about 1 cup of water per serving of tea.
Steeping the Nettle:
Place the fresh or dried nettle leaves in a tea infuser, teapot, or directly in a cup.
Pour the boiling water over the nettle leaves.
Let the tea steep for about 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired strength. The longer it steeps, the stronger and more flavorful it will be.
Straining the Tea:
If you placed the leaves directly in the cup, strain the tea using a fine mesh strainer.
If you used a tea infuser or teapot, simply remove it.
Flavoring the Tea (optional):
You can add honey, lemon, or other herbs like mint to taste. These additions can enhance the flavor and add extra health benefits.
Serving:
Serve the tea hot. You can also refrigerate it and enjoy it as a cold tea.
Additional Tips:
Storage: Dried nettle leaves can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for several months.
Cautions: If you have any medical conditions, are pregnant, or are taking medications, consult a healthcare professional before consuming stinging nettle tea, as it can interact with certain medications and conditions.
