Herb of the day
Stinging nettle
Urtica dioica
Leaf day: by tradition the part of the plant to gather today
A common plant with stinging hairs; its young spring leaves make both a vegetable dish and a tea.
Description
A perennial, 50–150 cm tall, with male and female plants; its leaves and stems are covered in stinging hairs. The leaves are gathered before flowering, wearing gloves. It is rich in minerals (potassium, calcium, iron), flavonoids and organic acids.
Traditional use
Traditionally used as a diuretic tea, as part of spring "cleansing" routines, and eaten as a vegetable, like spinach.
Preparation
Tea: pour 200 ml of hot water on 1–2 teaspoons (about 2–4 g) of dried leaves and steep for 10 minutes. Drink plenty of fluids with it.
Caution
Not to be used for fluid retention (oedema) caused by heart or kidney disease. If you take anticoagulants, diuretics or blood-pressure medication, ask your doctor first.