How to make your own Nettle Tea

I think most of us associate the common nettle with the ‘sting’ often experienced during woodland walks (or going a little off-piste on park walks) as a child, so the thought of drinking it as a tea, seems a little strange…

However, this slightly savage (immediate thoughts on being stung!) weed, is actually a medicinal plant which has amazing health properties and is the source of lots of micronutrients such as vitamin A ,C and K, calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium. It can certainly be bought as a herbal tea (Neal’s Yard do a great one), but it’s also growing everywhere at this time of year, so can be foraged easily and made at home for free.

No garden needed, you’ll find common / stinging nettles out in the countryside and they can be harvested from there - just ensure they are away from roads (where they can absorb fumes from cars) and make sure to use gloves and wear a long sleeve top when harvesting them.

So here’s for the health benefits*…

• Anti-inflammatory

• Antihistamine

• Allergy relief

• Lowers blood pressure

• Reduces risk of infection

• Supports the liver, kidneys and respiratory system

  *Disclaimer - Nettle tea is relatively safe, however, avoid if you are pregnant or diagnosed with diabetes. In addition, if you experience any health conditions or are on any medications it is always recommended that you consult a medical doctor first.

…and how to make your own nettle tea at home:

When harvesting, use gloves and cut the newer leaves from the top of the plant. If you make the cutting just above where the older leaves branch out, it will allow the plant to continue growing (very important for insects, and supporting the natural ecosystem).

• Once gathered (a small bunch of leaves will do) and still using gloves, rinse the leaves in hot water (or leave to wilt, which will remove their ‘sting’ and then rinse).

• Then add to a large saucepan and fill 3/4 of the pan with boiling filtered water.

• Place on the hob and simmer for 5 - 15 minutes, depending on how strong you like it (the heat also removes the stinging properties).

• Once ready, use a sieve to separate the leaves from the tea or serve as it is. You can also leave it to cool to have as a spring / summer tonic.

It has a very subtle flavour, and tastes a bit like green tea. If you’re trying it for the first time try it in small amounts initially. Let me know if you try making your own and what you think of it :)