Foraging Stinging Nettles

Foraging Stinging Nettles

This was an unplanned springtime foraging that happened on a wet day while we were out taking sunset photos. Luckily my rubber mud boots were in the car and I found some clippers. I used plastic bags to create gloves to protect my hands from the thorns. I gathered a grocery bag full of nettle tops which later dried down to about 2 oz. enough to fill a quart jar and make about 80 cups of tea.

I always feel rich when I find a patch of wild stinging nettles. The dried leaves make a wonderful nutrient packed tea that soothes jangled nerves, eases nasal drip (due to its antihistamine action), and boosts vitality. Nettle tea has a mellow green flavor. On days when I am feeling overwhelmed, I drink a quart of the tea and by the time I have finished, I feel better. If one quart doesn’t do it, I’ll have another.

Depending on how strong I want the tea, I add 2 Tbls. – ¼ cup of dried nettles to a quart jar then fill it to the top with boiling water. If I need it sooner than later, I let it steep for at only ½ hour. For a stronger infusion it can sit overnight and the water turns a lovely emerald green color. Nettle tea is a tonic herb and is healthy way to relax at the end of the day and is better for your liver and kidneys than a glass of wine or beer. If you’re trying to reduce your alcohol consumption try my favorite end of the day tea called Serenity made with Nettles, Oat Tops, Lemon Balm, and Lavender.


Nettle tea is great internally (due to its high mineral and chlorophyll content) as well as topically as a rinse after shampooing to silken and strengthen your hair. It is also beneficial for a healthy scalp.

Nettles is a must to have in your woman's herbal pharmacy for hormonal support. And oh if you have cranky joints a cup or 2 of tea a day can cool the pain away. When my joints talk to me its time to make a cup of tea.