How to Get Nettle Tea

Nettle leaves are used in tea.

Nettle has been used for hundreds of years as a medicinal aid. The stinging nettle plant originates from northern Europe and Asia and is now grown all over the world. The leaves and stems of the nettle plant are covered in fine hairs that produce a stinging sensation when touched. Nettle is rich in vitamins, minerals, phosphates, calcium and iron. Nettle is used to treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, urinary tract infections, diabetes and hay fever. To experience benefits of this plant, you can learn to make nettle tea at home with dried nettle leaves.

Things You'll Need

• 4 tbsp. dried nettle leaves
• 4 cups water
• Kettle
• Saucepan with lid
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Teapot
• Teacup or mug
• Honey or sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. 

   Boil water for nettle tea.

   Add water to kettle and bring to boil on top of stove.

2. 

   Steep nettle leaves in covered saucepan.

   Place dried nettle leaves in saucepan.

3. 

   Strain nettle tea into teapot to serve.

   Pour boiling water over nettle leaves and cover saucepan with lid. Steep for 20 minutes.

4. 

   Drink nettle tea immediately after steeping.

   Remove lid from saucepan. Pour steeped mixture over strainer and collect liquid in teapot. Dispose of nettle leaves.

5. Pour tea into a teacup or mug and drink. Add honey or sugar if desired. Recipe makes four cups of tea.

Tips & Warnings

• Make a large batch of nettle tea and refrigerate for later use.

• Drink three to four cups a day for best results.

• Consult with a physician before consuming nettle tea to ensure its safety.

• Do not take nettle tea or any nettle products if you are pregnant.

• Common side effects of nettle tea ingestion include mild stomach upset and fluid retention. Severe allergic reactions are rare but can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, hives or facial swelling.

References

• University of Maryland Medical Center: Stinging Nettle
• National Gardenening Association; Nettle Tea, Anyone?; Charlie Nardozzi
• Encylopedia.com; Nettle; Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine; Clare Hanrahan, et al.; 2005
• Drugs.com: Nettle