Urticaria dioica, Stinging Nettle
Tonic effects:
Nettle's dark blue-green leaves herald huge quantities of chlorophyll, vitamins, and iron. A natural nervine, Nettle also quiets allergy symptoms and is useful in resolving coughs and colds. This herb, too, supports elimination of toxins, especially from the kidneys. Nettle also nourishes the adrenal glands, where the energy hormone adrenalin is made.
To harvest: Don't touch Nettles as you gather -- the leaves and stems have a sting until the plant is dried or cooked. Wear gloves if you want, and use scissors to cut the tops of the plants into a basket. (If you do get stung, rub a Burdock leaf on the spot.) Use fresh, or dry for a few days on screens or newspaper away from sunlight.
To use: Add freely to soups and stir fries, fresh or dried. Also great in vinegar infusions. Substitute Nettle tea for coffee and look for shining hair and long nails after a couple of weeks. A daily cup of Nettle tea will also to wonders to banish those dark winter circles from under your eyes. The rule of thumb is one teaspoon of dried herb to one cup of tea; one handful to a pot of tea. Pour boiling water over the herb and steep 10 minutes. Strain and drink. Sweeten with honey if you prefer. If you love what Nettle does for you, you can learn more about it in Wild Woman's Garden.
