Embrace the Takeover: The Health Benefits of Nettles + Recipes!
Hello fellow nature enthusiasts and wellness seekers!
As a certified herbalist who has stinging nettles taking over the land, I can attest to the incredible health benefits this green wonder offers. Nettles, scientifically known as Urtica dioica, have been revered for centuries for their numerous medicinal properties and culinary versatility.
It seems that maybe they are taking over for good reason. We need this Green Wonder in our lives!
The Marvelous Benefits of Nettles:
Nutrient Powerhouse: Nettles are a rich source of vitamins (A, C, E, K), minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium), and essential fatty acids. Incorporating nettles into your diet can help boost overall nutrition and vitality.
Anti-Inflammatory Magic: Nettles possess anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in alleviating conditions such as arthritis, allergies, and skin irritations. The natural compounds found in nettles may help reduce inflammation and provide relief.
Respiratory Health: This incredible herb has a long history of supporting respiratory health. Nettles may aid in relieving symptoms of hay fever and other allergic reactions, making them a go-to choice during allergy seasons.
Detoxification Support: Nettles act as a gentle diuretic, promoting kidney function and supporting the detoxification process. Including nettle tea in your routine may assist in flushing out toxins from the body.
A Few Cautions:
Handling and Preparation: While nettles offer many benefits, it's essential to handle them with care. Fresh nettles can cause skin irritation due to tiny stinging hairs. Use gloves when harvesting and preparing them to avoid skin discomfort.
Consult a Professional: If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a pre-existing medical condition, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating nettles into your routine.
Let's Get Cooking: Nettle Delights
Here are a few recipes that use fresh harvested nettles:
Nettle Soup
Ingredients:
1 lb fresh nettles 1 onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth 1 cup raw heavy cream Salt and pepper to taste Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
Rinse the nettles well and remove any tough stems. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add the nettles and broth to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the nettles are tender. Puree the soup with an immersion blender or in a blender. Stir in the raw cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Nettle Pesto
Ingredients:
Two cups fresh nettles 1/2 cup pine nuts 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese or raw cheese of your choice, 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1/2 cup olive oil Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Rinse the nettles well and remove any tough stems. Blanch the nettles in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water. In a food processor, combine the blanched nettles, pine nuts, cheese, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
If you’re opting away from noodles try spaghetti squash as a noodle replacement.
3. Nettle Tea
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh nettles 4 cups water + Honey or lemon juice to taste (optional)
Instructions:
Rinse the nettles well and remove any tough stems. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot. Add the nettles to the pot and simmer for 5-10 minutes. Strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Add honey or lemon juice if desired.
Fun Facts:
Fresh nettles are often preferred for making tea as they are believed to have more nutrients than dried nettles.
Nettle tea is a popular herbal infusion that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It is believed to have a range of health benefits, including:
Relieving seasonal allergies: Nettle tea is a natural antihistamine and can help reduce the symptoms of seasonal allergies like runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes.
Reducing inflammation: Nettle tea contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Supporting healthy digestion: Nettle tea is believed to have a gentle laxative effect and can help promote healthy digestion.
Boosting the immune system: Nettle tea is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and iron, which can help support a healthy immune system.
Incorporate these delightful nettle recipes into your routine and relish the wholesome benefits of this versatile herb. Remember to harvest responsibly and savor the goodness nature has to offer!
Stay green and stay healthy!
Yours in herbal wellness,
Julie Quinn Certified Herbalist and Nature Lover
Founder of Quinntessentials
