Stinging nettle, or Urtica dioica, is an herbaceous perennial that thrives in wet climates and moist soils. Nettles earn their name from the tiny hairs found on the leaves and stems that cause a stinging sensation upon contact with skin. Nettle leaves have long been used fresh as a wild food in spring and then dried for its beneficial properties. Our North American nettle leaves are organically cultivated in the United States and make a light brew when steeped as nettle tea or when added to an herbal infusion blend. Nettle leaves are harvested in the spring, once the plant has had time to mature but before it goes into flower.

Nettle has been used worldwide for centuries in a variety of countries and cultures. It has been eaten as a wild food plant, applied topically to the skin, and drunk as an herbal tea. It was used extensively for its fibers and was woven into cloth. Nettle fibers were considered to be high quality and comparable to flax or hemp in Northern Europe.

Nettle supports healthy urinary function and has mild diuretic action and helps to maintain upper respiratory health.*

Our North American nettle leaf produces a light infusion, with a mild flavor and grass-like undertones. This cultivated leaf does not brew as strong as the European nettle leaf that we offer.

Nettle is a dioecious, herbaceous, perennial plant. The soft, green leaves are borne oppositely on an erect, wiry, green stem and have a strongly serrated margin. The leaves and stems are very hairy with nonstinging hairs, and, in most subspecies, also bear many stinging hairs (trichomes), whose tips come off when touched, causing paresthesia.

Precautions
No known precautions. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.