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Making tea from purple dead nettle is a delightful way to enjoy the benefits of this often overlooked plant. It’s a simple process that connects us to the tradition of using local, wildcrafted herbs for health and pleasure.Â
This article will walk you through making purple dead nettle tea from harvesting, methods of preparation, benefits, and precautions. You’ll find everything you need to brew the perfect cup.
If you’re interested in the broader uses of purple dead nettle, you might find my other article, “Wildcrafting Purple Dead Nettle for Food and Medicine,” useful and informative. In this article, I delve deeper into the many ways this plant can be incorporated into our lives.
Harvesting Purple Dead Nettle
The best time to harvest purple dead nettle is in early spring when the plants are young and vibrant, just before or during their flowering stage. This is when the leaves are most tender and the medicinal properties are at their peak. Look for lush, green plants with vibrant purple tops. Always harvest from clean, unpolluted areas, well away from roadsides and chemical-treated lawns.
When harvesting, gently pinch off the top two to three inches of the plant. This part is the most tender and flavorful, ideal for making tea. Be mindful as you forage, taking only what you need and leaving plenty behind for the bees and for the plant to continue its growth cycle.
Benefits or Purple Dead Nettle Tea
Purple dead nettle tea, with its subtle, earthy flavor, is a delightful addition to any wellness routine. This humble “weed” offers a variety of supportive benefits. Let’s explore some of the wonderful ways incorporating purple dead nettle tea can enhance your well-being:
- Natural Histamine Support: Many people find purple dead nettle helpful during allergy season. Its natural properties may help ease common allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose without causing drowsiness.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: The tea is known for its gentle anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe internal inflammation. This can be particularly comforting for those experiencing discomfort due to inflammation.
- Digestive Comfort: Purple dead nettle tea is gentle on the digestive system and may help alleviate minor digestive issues like bloating, gas, and indigestion, promoting overall digestive wellness.
- Nutrient-Rich: This plant is packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, iron, and fiber. Drinking the tea is a simple way to introduce these essential nutrients into your diet, supporting overall health and vitality.
- Natural Defense Support: Research suggests that purple dead nettle has antimicrobial properties. This makes the tea a supportive drink for maintaining your body’s natural defenses, especially during cold and flu season.
- Skin Health: The tea’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can extend to skin health. Drinking the tea provides internal support, and using it topically as a rinse or in skincare formulations can help soothe minor skin irritations and acne.
- Women’s Wellness: Anecdotal evidence suggests that purple dead nettle may support women’s health, particularly in easing premenstrual symptoms and regulating menstrual cycles. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects.
- Gentle Detoxification: Purple dead nettle is believed to have mild diuretic properties, which can aid in the body’s natural detoxification processes, supporting kidney health and overall well-being.
- Calming Effects: Like many herbal teas, purple dead nettle tea can have a calming effect on the mind and body. It’s a wonderful beverage to enjoy in the evening to unwind after a busy day, promoting relaxation and a sense of calm.
While purple dead nettle tea offers many supportive benefits, it should be consumed in moderation and not as a substitute for medical treatment. As with any herbal remedy, individual responses can vary, so it’s wise to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or pre-existing health conditions.
Preparing Purple Dead Nettle Tea
You can make purple dead nettle tea with either fresh or dried leaves and/or flowers. The process is quite simple and, for me, a way to connect with the natural rhythms of the season.
Using Fresh Leaves & Flowers
- Rinse the Leaves: Gently wash the harvested nettle leaves and flowers under cool, running water to remove any dirt or small insects.
- Steep: Place a handful of fresh leaves and flowering tops (about one cup) into a teapot or directly into a mug. Pour boiling water over the leaves, enough to cover them completely (about one to two cups).
- Infuse: Let the leaves steep for about 10 to 15 minutes. The longer you steep, the more potent the flavor and herbal properties will be.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the tea into a cup to remove the plant material. If desired, you can sweeten the tea with a bit of honey or enjoy it plain to savor the subtle, earthy flavor.
Using Dried Leaves and/or flowering tops
- Dry the Leaves: If you’re starting with fresh leaves and/or flowers, you can dry them by laying them out in a single layer on a clean surface, away from direct sunlight. Allow them to air dry until completely devoid of moisture, which can take a few days.
- Store: Once dried, store the leaves and flowers in an airtight container, away from light and moisture.
- Brew: To make tea from dried leaves and/or flowers, use about one tablespoon of dried leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 to 15 minutes, then strain and enjoy.
Consumption and Precautions
Purple dead nettle tea can be enjoyed daily, especially during the spring months when allergies are prevalent, thanks to its natural antihistamine properties. However, as with any herbal remedy, it’s wise to listen to your body and give it breaks now and then.
While purple dead nettle is generally considered safe for most people, it’s always prudent to start with small amounts to see how your body responds. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare provider before adding new herbal teas to their routine.
Final Thoughts
Making and enjoying purple dead nettle tea is a wonderful way to connect with the cycles of nature and incorporate the healing power of wild plants into your life. Remember to harvest responsibly and with gratitude for the gifts these plants offer us. Whether you’re sipping this tea for its health benefits or simply for the joy of trying something new, you’re participating in the age-old tradition of living in harmony with the natural world.
Disclaimer:
The Outdoor Apothecary website is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is the reader’s responsibility to ensure proper plant identification and usage.
Please be aware that some plants are poisonous or can have serious adverse health effects. We are not health professionals, medical doctors, or nutritionists. It is essential to consult with qualified professionals for verification of nutritional information, health benefits, and any potential risks associated with edible and medicinal plants mentioned on this website.
