FREE FEED: Nettle
NETTLE
urtica dioica
Now this may be controversial but I don’t think there are many plants which epitomise the embodiment of both darkness and light than the stinging nettle. You know, that pesky plant that seems to show up uninvited in your garden or hiking trail? Well, it turns out this so-called "weed" is actually a powerhouse of health benefits and medicinal value. Ever since becoming keen weed foragers, we’ve made it a priority to seek out and record the location of a thriving nettle patch. This is a herbal ally we really can’t get enough of, even to the point now where we grow it in our own garden. That’s right, we’ve recently started our own little medicinal nettle patch to ensure we have a fresh supply on hand whenever we need it.
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) might sound like a villain from a fantasy novel, but it's more of a misunderstood hero in the world of plants. Sure, it has tiny, hair-like structures that sting when touched, but this plant is far more than just a prickly annoyance. That’s not to discount the fact that yes, it does sting if not handled correctly. And yes, that sting can be highly irritating (we’ll post an instant remedy below should you have the misfortune of getting stung) but historically, it's been cherished across cultures for its numerous health benefits and medicinal properties.
Stinging nettle has been hanging around for a long time—like, really long. Ancient civilizations from the Greeks and Romans to various Indigenous peoples have recognized its value. The Greeks used it for its medicinal properties, and the Romans believed it could treat arthritis. In medieval Europe, it was a staple in both culinary and medicinal applications. Even the Vikings used nettle fibres to make clothing!
In traditional Chinese medicine, nettle has been used for thousands of years to treat a range of ailments, from joint pain to allergies. It’s like this plant has been part of a timeless wellness tradition. In Australia, nettle has somehow found its way around and naturalised across the South and East of the country and we even have our own species of native nettle which our First Peoples have been eating for centuries.
If you’re not a fan of nettle and it’s pesky stinging habit is perpetuating your nettle prejudice, let’s chat about why it’s a plant worth forming a new relationship with.
Here are some of the well established health benefits of our spiky-haired friend:
It’s a nutrient powerhouse: If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your nutrient intake, stinging nettle is your friend. It’s packed with vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins. Plus, it’s rich in minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Essentially, it’s like a multivitamin in leafy green form!
Allergy Ally: If seasonal allergies make you feel like a sneezing machine, nettle might offer some relief. Studies suggest that nettle may act as a natural antihistamine, helping to ease allergy symptoms. How cool is that?
Joint Joy: For those dealing with arthritis or joint pain, nettle has anti-inflammatory properties that could provide some much-needed comfort. It's been used traditionally to soothe joint pain, and modern science backs up this ancient wisdom.
Immune System Boost: Nettles are known to strengthen the immune system. They contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and support overall health, which is perfect for keeping those pesky colds at bay.
Digestive Health: Nettle has been used to support digestive health and may help with conditions like bloating and indigestion. Plus, its high fiber content aids in regular bowel movements.
Now that you're pumped about stinging nettle, let’s talk foraging. First off, you’ll want to ensure you’re picking nettles in a safe, clean area away from pesticides and pollutants. Wear gloves—trust me, your hands will thank you later! I’ve tried to act tough under the false pretence that nettle won’t bother me but that’s a futile endeavour. Gloves are definitely a must whenever you’re handling nettle.
Nettle is typically found in rich, damp soil, often near rivers or in shady, wooded areas. Look for young, tender leaves in spring and early summer, as older leaves can be tougher and more fibrous. Or even better, grow your own nettle patch (obviously do this responsibility to ensure it doesn’t proliferate around your garden).
Once you’ve foraged some nettle, the real fun begins! Remember, once you boil nettle or dry it, it no longer has the power to sting you so here are a few ways to incorporate it into your daily routine.
Nettle Tea: Steep fresh or dried nettle leaves in boiling water for a soothing and nutrient-rich herbal tea. We dry most of the nettle we harvest and use it particularly in infusions and decoctions to really concentrate the medicinal benefits.
Nettle Soup: Use nettles as you would any leafy green in soups and stews. It’s a great way to get a boost of vitamins and minerals. Chuck it in your potato and leek soup or do a lentil and nettle soup. You can do this with dried nettle, as well as fresh.
Smoothies and Juices: Blend nettle leaves into your smoothie or juice for an extra nutrient kick.
Nettle Pesto: Swap out basil for nettle in your pesto recipe for a unique and nutritious twist.
It’s easy to overlook stinging nettle as just another annoying weed. But when you look closer, you see that it’s a plant with a rich history and a wealth of benefits. By embracing nettle, you’re not only connecting with ancient herbal traditions but also treating yourself to a nutritional boost to promote overall health and wellness. So next time you encounter a patch of nettles, instead of seeing a potentially painful and irritating weed, greet it like an old friend and take some home with you and share a meal together.
Check out the damage from a nettle sting whilst taking these photos. This was about 15 mins afterwards. Rubbed with a little plantain and within 15 minutes the discomfort was gone.
Oh and if you do get stung, one of the most effective and long-revered plant remedies is to rub some plantain leaves directly on the affected area. Plantain is another wonderful weed which we’ll no doubt cover in future posts.
Thanks for reading guys and enjoy your nettle journey!
