How To Make A Nettle Infusion and Its Mind Blowing Benefits
Nettle (Urtica dioica,) is EASILY my favorite plant! It has been used for forever because it brings STRENGTH, gusto and energy to the body! Nourishing the kidneys, building the blood, bringing down inflammation and a hundred other virtues. One way you can get the most out of nettles is to make what’s called a Nourishing Herbal Infusion. (Read on to find out how!)
How to Make a Nettle Infusion
Making nettle infusion requires only a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
1. Dried organic nettle leaves
2. Filtered water
Instructions:
Measure out approximately 1oz/28g of dried nettle leaves. (This is roughly 1 cup)
In a large pot, bring 1 quart (4 cups) of filtered water to a boil.
Add the dried nettle leaves to a quart sized mason jar, and cover all the way to the rim of the jar with the boiled water. Go slow, don’t crack your jar!
Cover tightly with your mason jar lid. Allow the nettle leaves to steep in the hot water for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum potency.
After steeping, strain the infusion using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the nettle leaves.
Drink 1-4 cups per day. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days (if you haven’t drunk it before 48 hours, use it to water your plants.) We like to drink ours unsweetened with ice.
Nettle will change your life! (No, seriously)
Nettle infusion is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds you need to maintain proper function in your body, feel vital, energetic and happy.
Rich in Nutrients: Nettle leaves are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for overall health, supporting immune function, bone strength, and cardiovascular health.
Anti-inflammatory: Nettle contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds, such as flavonoids and carotenoids, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Regular consumption of nettle infusion is reported to alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions like arthritis and asthma.
Supports Detoxification: Nettle LOVES your kidneys. It acts as a gentle diuretic, promoting urination and helping to flush out toxins from the body.
Boosts Immunity: The immune-boosting properties of nettle infusion can help strengthen the body's defenses against infections and illnesses. It may also help reduce the duration and severity of colds and seasonal allergies.
Supports Digestive Health: Drinking nettle infusion can soothe digestive discomfort and promote gut health. It may help relieve symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and constipation, thanks to its mild laxative properties.
Balances Hormones: Nettle is believed to have hormone-balancing effects, particularly in women. Regular consumption of nettle infusion may help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual cramps, and alleviate symptoms of menopause.
Adrenal Support: Nettle infusion is known for its ability to support adrenal health. The adrenal glands play a crucial role in regulating stress response and hormone production. By nourishing these glands with nettle infusion, individuals may experience improved energy levels and greater resilience in times of stress.
Allergy Relief: Nettle is often used to alleviate allergy symptoms. Consuming nettle infusion may help reduce allergic reactions by modulating the body's immune response and decreasing inflammation, making it a great remedy for hay fever and seasonal allergies.
Nettles are hardy plants that grow well in rich soil. I tend to find them near water. We cook them like greens, make them into pesto, add them to baked dishes, soups and stews - but nettle infusions are an incredibly simple and accessible way to get many of the nutrients and minerals us modern folks miss out on on a daily basis. Plant some nettles this year!
