How to Make Strawberry and Nettle Tea

No matter where I am in the world, I always look forward to strawberry season. When ripened correctly, they are better than candy. Not only do I love to eat them, but when I slice the leafy tops off the fruit I don't discard them. I use them.

Strawberry leaves are medicinal and used much the same way as raspberry leaves. It's best known as a woman's herb and is said to strengthen and tone the uterus. It is also an astringent and has been indicated to combat diarrhea.

I absolutely love mixing it with stinging nettle--it makes for a refreshing, slightly sweet spring beverage. I often let it cool and serve it over ice. Here is my recipe.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• 8 to 10 strawberries
• 2 tbsp. dried stinging nettle leaf
• 4 cups filtered water
• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon

1. Slice the tops off the strawberries and set aside (I usually just eat the strawberries!).

2. Add the water to a saucepan and drop in strawberries. Bring to a boil and simmer on low for 3 minutes.

3. Turn off heat and add dried stinging nettle. Stir with a wooden spoon and cover.

4. Let steep for at least 10 minutes, but 30 minutes is ideal. Strain the liquid and either reheat it to serve it hot or pour it over ice.

Tips & Warnings

• For something different, you can substitute the nettle for fresh spearmint leaves. Follow the same procedure, but limit steeping time to 10 minutes.

• Nettle is a source of Vitamin K, which helps the blood clot. If you are taking medication like Coumadi, which is designed to prevent blood clots, stay away from Nettle.

• Always consult with a doctor before taking herbal medicines.

• It is wise to do your own research on a medicinal herb before you decide to take it.

Resources

• Medicinal Uses for Strawberry