Stinging Nettle — FarmPal

Nutritional powerhouse and spring tonic. The sting is worth the reward.

Scientific Name
Urtica dioica
Growing Zones
Zones 3-10

Medicinal Properties

Nutritive tonic
Antihistamine
Diuretic
Anti-inflammatory
Blood builder

Parts Used

Leaves
Root
Seeds

Traditional Uses

  • •Spring detoxification and nutrition
  • •Allergies and hay fever
  • •Anemia and iron deficiency
  • •Arthritis and joint pain
  • •Prostate health (root)
  • •Hair and nail health

Preparations

Nourishing Infusion

Steep 1 oz dried nettle in 1 quart boiling water overnight (4-10 hours). Strain and refrigerate.

Dosage: Drink 2-4 cups daily for deep nutrition

Tea

Steep 1-2 tsp dried leaves in 8 oz hot water for 10-15 minutes.

Dosage: 2-4 cups daily for allergies or general health

Tincture

Fresh herb is best. Pack jar with fresh nettle (use gloves!), cover with vodka. 4-6 weeks.

Dosage: 30-60 drops, 3 times daily for allergies

Food

Steam or sauté young leaves (cooking neutralizes sting). Use like spinach.

Dosage: Eat freely as nutritious green

Harvesting Guide

Timing: Harvest young tops in spring before flowering. Can cut back and harvest second flush.

Method: Wear thick gloves! Cut top 4-6 inches of young plants.

Drying: Dry on screens (sting is neutralized when dry). Store in airtight container.

⚠️ Cautions

  • •Wear gloves when handling fresh plant
  • •May interact with blood thinners, diabetes, and blood pressure medications
  • •Avoid during pregnancy (may stimulate uterine contractions)
  • •May affect blood sugar and lithium levels
Storage
Dried leaf 1-2 years. Loses potency faster than many herbs use within year for best results.