Stinging nettle infusions are incredibly nourishing tonics that contain anti-inflammatory properties and can help support overall health and wellness.
Many drink this mineral-rich beverage on a regular basis for medicinal purposes and find relief from adrenal fatigue symptoms, anemia, seasonal allergies and hayfever, liver health, hormone balance, and so much more!
Nettle infusions are inexpensive, easy to make at home, and absolutely packed with vitamins and minerals.
Listen to this blog post!
Why Nettle Infusions?
It’s well known that we are living in a time when we have strayed from traditional, nourishing diets, have depleted soils, and as a result- we have a weaker population with rampant health problems.
This means that to offset or reverse these issues and have optimum health we need to incorporate as much whole food as possible and get all of the nutrition we can.
This is where herbal infusions really shine!
Nettle infusions can be an absolute game-changer for those that feel they don’t have enough energy or are depleted and need to replenish nutrients.
While isolated vitamins and supplements are created or processed in laboratories and can actually create imbalances over time, herbal infusions are the ultimate food-based supplement.
The vitamins and minerals in herbal infusions are actually absorbed and used by the body and have a naturally occurring balance between the nutrients they contain.
Health Benefits Of Stinging Nettle Infusions
So, you may be asking “why are stinging nettle infusions so great?”.
Well, it’s because they are full of calcium, magnesium, vitamins A, B, C, D &K, iron, trace minerals, potassium, iodine, boron, manganese, zinc, copper, and sulfur.
Whew! That’s a lot of nutrition!
Wondering what people use an infusion of common nettle for? A whole lot of things!
But here are a few examples:
- arthritis
- immune system support
- joint and muscle pain
- seasonal allergies and hay fever
- urinary tract infections
- hormone imbalance
- benign prostatic hyperplasia
- lupus
- blood pressure regulation
- gout
- anemia
- eczema
- kidney and bladder stones
- inflammation
- heavy menstrual bleeding
- congestion
and so. much. more!
Nettle Infusion vs. Nettle Tea
You may hear some people use the terms “nettle infusion” and “nettle tea” interchangeably but there is actually a difference.
Let me explain…
While you definitely use a dried herb for both a tea and an infusion, the difference between the two is in the amount of herbs used and how long they steep.
When making herbal teas you generally use a small amount of herbs, add hot water, and steep for 5-10 minutes before drinking.
But when making an infusion you use 1/4 cup or more of dried nettle leaves and much more water. This will also steep for anywhere from 4 hours to overnight.
The larger amount of plant material and longer steep time means that an infusion will have a stronger flavor and contain much more nutrients than nettle leaf tea.
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Stinging Nettle Infusion Recipe
This recipe is so easy, you’re not going to believe it!
All you need to do is add 1 quart (about 4 cups) of boiling water and one cup (or about one ounce) of dried nettles in a glass jar and let that steep for at least 4 hours.
If you can leave it overnight that’s even better!
After steeping for the desired amount of time, strain the herbs and store the liquid in the fridge.
General Recommendations
Drink 2-4 cups a day for 6 weeks (or longer if desired).
Also, keep in mind that a nettle infusion will stay good in the fridge for 2-3 days.
(If you don’t drink it within that time, don’t throw it away. Nettle infusions make great hair rinses! See below 😉 )
*If you’re super sensitive or need to go slow with new foods or supplements*
Start with 1/4 cup of dried nettle in a quart (4 cups) of water, and after steeping and straining, start with drinking 1/4 cup of nettle infusion once or twice a day and increase from there if you feel it’s appropriate for you 😉
FAQs About Nettle Infusions
Have a few lingering questions about nettle infusions that you need to be answered before you give it a try?
Let me see if I can help!
Where do you buy dried nettle leaves?
There are many places you can find dried nettle. If you forage (and know what to look for) you may be able to find the fresh nettle leaves and dry them yourself.
*Just be sure to wear gloves (and maybe a long-sleeved shirt and long pants!) and do not touch it with your bare hands! It’s called a stinging nettle plant for reason!
But, if foraging for fresh nettles isn’t your favorite way to stock your herbal remedies, you can always check a health food store’s bulk section or order online.
Here is the dried nettle that I typically use if you’re interested 😉
Are there any side effects?
While stinging nettle is typically considered safe, there are some considerations to keep in mind.
First, always talk to your health care provider if you are on medication, have a health issue, or are pregnant or nursing!
In addition, it has been reported that some people have experienced mild stomach upset or loose stool after using nettle.
And, as with any substance, there is always the possibility of allergic reactions ranging from hives to something more serious.
For most people though, stinging nettle is not a problem and can be an amazing addition to their natural health program.
Is there any way to make it taste better?
Not liking the, shall we say earthy taste of your nettle infusion? No problem!
There are many things you can add that can help with the flavor.
Here are a few ideas:
- mint
- raw honey
- cranberry juice
- lemon or lime
- warm milk (and natural sweetener of your choice)
- a brewed fruit tea
- molasses
And be sure to try both a warm and a cold version. You might find that you like your nettle infusion better one way than the other.
Is there anything you can do with a nettle infusion if it’s too old to drink?
Yes! If you make a nettle infusion and forget or don’t drink it all in 2-3 days, but don’t want to throw it out just use it as a hair rinse!
Turns out, stinging nettle infusions are great for healthy hair too. You can use the infusion as it is or mix other herbs for scalp conditions or hair loss.
This website has a few easy, and really interesting hair rinse recipes if you’re interested 😉
Not into using a stinging nettle infusion on your hair? How about using it in your garden!
I didn’t know this, but apparently, you can use it for fertilizer and a parasite repellent.
What a great way to make sure that nothing goes to waste!
Final Thoughts On Stinging Nettle Infusions
If you’re looking for a highly absorbable, easy-to-use herbal infusion that is high in vitamins and minerals and can help support optimum energy and health, be sure to give stinging nettle infusions a try!
Many people begin to feel positive effects like less fatigue, more energy, and an overall feeling of better health quickly, some within a few days to a week!
Just be sure to check with your health care provider if you have specific health issues or are taking any medications.
And if you make a nettle infusion and don’t get to drink it all, no worries! Use it as a hair rinse or in your garden.
In my opinion, because of the wide variety of health benefits and overall versatility of stinging nettles, this is one herb you definitely want to include in your natural medicine cabinet!
Have you tried a nettle infusion? If so, let me know what you think, how you used it, and if you have any favorite recipes!
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