Stinging Nettles
When I think of nettles, the word that comes to mind is NOURISHMENT. Nettles are a perennial medicinal weed which grows worldwide. It has been used since ancient times for fiber (clothing, paper!), food, medicine and magic.
Nettles are a nutritive, nourishing herb full of vitamins, minerals and enzymes. They are a tonic which can build new tissues, revitalize, heal and replenish. Building to hair, nails and skin. Aids in absorption of nutrients. Supports organs of elimination. Is a diuretic, cleansing to the urinary tract. Healing to the adrenals. Supports the cardiovascular system. And is anti-inflammatory, anti-allergen and strengthening to the immune system. Antirheumatic - used topically for inflamed joints. And a wonderful ally menstruation/pregnancy/postpartum as it it regulating, blood building and nutritive.
It is no surprise that nature gifts us with nettles after our long, dark winters. We may be depleted, and experiencing stagnation. Nettles to the rescue!
Here is what one of my herbalism teachers, Seraphina Capranos, says about nettles:
“Therapeutically, nettle is great for those with anemia as it improves iron absorption, improves circulation, and reduces uric acid for those who suffer from gout. Nettles are great for those with arthritis, and are used for a wide variety of skin conditions from acne to eczema. I love offering this herb to folks who are exhausted, depleted, or have suffered adrenal burn-out. Nutrient-rich nettles are also a great tonic for pregnancy, and new mothers who wish to increase their breast milk supply. Personally, I find that this herb helps to balance blood sugar levels and decrease sugar cravings. Nettles can also be taken to counter hay fever, allergies—and they’re a helpful ally for those with asthma.
To reap the benefits of nettle for any of the above mentioned therapeutic uses, you have to consume it over a long period of time To address anemia, asthma, skin issues, and hay fever, you will need to take nettles daily for several months. Over time, I’ve noticed that nettles improve the quality of skin, hair and nails through their nutrient and mineral-rich deep nourishment.
This herb is a food. Our bodies know how to use the nutrients because we’ve co-evolved with plants—and nettles grow all over the world, so most of us have ancestral ties to this plant. We are evolutionarily familiar with one another. Nettles, like many green herbs that are suitable as food, are easy to digest and assimilate. I think of nettle as an ally that cleans up our inner waterways: the lymph, blood, kidneys, and bladder.”
WAYS TO ENJOY NETTLES
You can enjoy fresh nettles the same way you would spinach - in any way you would use spinach. Sauté and eat whenever you can! Juice nettles, make soup, pesto, etc. Just make sure you cook the nettles before you eat them, to deactivate the sting!
Tinctures and syrups are possible - get creative!
Overnight infusions or dried herb is my spring time staple - recipe found in our resources section.
This year, I am hoping to attempt to make this Nettle Cake recipe!
MAGIC & RITUAL
Nettles sting when touched - so we can harness that protective energy in ritual. Have nettle on your altar, or use the dried herb in your sacred smoke blend.
You can also hang dried nettles around your house and car for boundary setting and protection.