Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a very common weed through much of the world and believe it or not BUT there is no denser nutrition found in ANY plant on this planet, not even kale or blue-green algae! Fresh Nettle Infusion contains more energy per cup than any stimulant, and the bonus is it doesn’t have the other less desirable side effects that caffeine or other stimulating herbs can do.
Nettle is amazingly rich in protein, vitamins, and vital trace minerals: selenium (great for cancer prevention), sulphur (boosts immunity), zinc (good for memory and cell repair), chromium (perfect for diabetics and sugar balancing), and boron (bone strengthening). One Litre of nettle infusion contains more than 1000 milligrams of calcium, 15000 IU of vitamin A, 760 milligrams of vitamin K, 10% protein, and large amounts of most B vitamins. It can be beneficial to so many health conditions that there is far too many for me to list!
That being the case, is Stinging Nettle the ‘NEW’ Superfood of old we have all been overlooking?
Now, perhaps you might be like me – where there was a time I couldn’t fathom the thought of actually ingesting such a plant in any way shape or form other than to put it in my green-waste or compost bins! And for many years I’d screwed my nose up when a friend repeatedly suggested making foods containing nettle for me to try.
Fast track a couple of years and after working with some very amazing Naturopaths in the health store I was Managing at the time, I came to value this amazing prickly ‘garden weed’.
This is how I, (Jodie) make my fresh nettle infusion.
* Collect nettles – cut the top 2/3rds off and wash to remove any residues, bugs and dirt (I always use gloves to save the stings in my hands and arms!)
* Fill a pot (depending how much liquid you want to make) and pour clean boiling water over the nettles until you have covered completely.
* Put on the lid to cover and let infuse for 8-12 hours (overnight is best in my opinion)
* Strain nettles and store in glass bottles/jars.
Should last at least a week.
The greener the liquid, the higher the chlorophyll – the better for you.
NB: I personally drink at least 300ml per day when in season to support my adrenals and overall vitality. I also use 500ml as a conditioning rinse through my hair to support healthy hair growth, strength and shine.
GOOD LUCK and HAPPY NETTLING xx
Ps: If you want to find out some of the other health benefits Fresh Nettle Infusion can offer, feel free to do you own Google research – you might just be pleasantly surprised 🙂