Stinging Nettle - Urtica dioica

As the name suggests, you might want to handle these beauties with care, unless of course you’re itching for stimulation. Being the color of most other plants, nettle can sort of blend into the forest background. One of my favorite things is walking through the forest, suddenly smelling the fresh Spring-scent of Nettles, & realizing I’m surrounded by them. They like to grow in deep, rich, & damp soils in dense patches of 3-7 foot plants. Their leaves, stems, & flowers are covered with silica hairs that have a sting, so be careful.

Regularly drinking Nettle tea or eating the freshly cooked leaves strengthen your lungs, hair, nails, & connective tissues. Because Nettles are so rich in minerals & vitamins, it is highly recommended to consistently drink prepared tea during all phases of pregnancy to support a growing fetus. And it is safe for all ages!

Nettles have a long history of being used for aiding circulation, restoring communication between nerves, & reducing moist inflammation in joints (ex. gout, arthritis, allergies).