The Medicine of Nettles
Growing up, summertime was synonymous with nettles. Running and playing in the forest in early spring I'd start feeling that sweet sting on my feet and ankles, by early to mid summer I'd be stung all over my arms. Sometimes I would purposely slide my hand across their beautiful green leaves just to feel that tingling sensation. It was exhilarating and reminded me that I was alive and awake!
As an introvert I enjoyed being alone among the tall trees and found friendship with the plants of the forest floor. I could tell them anything and they wouldn't judge me. They were my safe space and nettles were the friend that reminded me on a daily basis that being alive was a gift. Even at that young age I knew that this plant and I were connected and had a long path ahead of healing together.
So, what are nettles good for? We've all heard they help seasonal allergies, right? As with all allergy remedies, it's best to begin taking them a few weeks before you start experiencing symptoms. Some people eat nettles everyday to help all season long, soup is usually the favorite. If you're really stuffed up and that mucus just won't budge, try taking 3 dropperfuls all at once. Your sinuses will usually start draining immediately.
You'd be hard pressed to find another plant so jam packed with vitamins and minerals. I love adding them into my diet. Every year I make nettle pesto, salt, add it to my bone broth. Omelets, stir-fry, sauteed greens with lots of garlic. Yum!
I also do a weekly herbal infusion. Place one ounce of dried nettle in a quart jar, pour in almost boiling water, cover and let sit overnight. Many people won't like the taste, but try heating it up with miso or generous amounts of ginger. It really does help while you're acclimating to the flavor. After a few weeks you might even find yourself craving it! If you're a nursing mama, this is wonderful for producing milk as well.
Nettle season is just about to begin here in the PNW and is already underway in other parts of the country. If you haven't yet, do try it this year. Your hair, nails, and skin will look amazing and everyone will be asking what your secret it is!