Nettle Tea
Urtica dioicaA grassy, earthy herbal tea brewed from dried nettle leaves. Drying and steeping deactivate its stinging hairs.
What Is Nettle Tea?
Nettle tea (Urtica dioica) is a caffeine-free herbal tea brewed from dried nettle leaves. Nettle is known for the hairs that cause a stinging sensation on contact; drying and steeping it in hot water deactivate these stinging hairs.
When brewed, it has a pale green-yellow color and a grassy, mildly earthy taste. It is consumed hot as a mild, caffeine-free herbal tea.
Nettle Tea Nutrition Facts
Unsweetened brewed nettle tea provides no energy; it contains no caffeine and contains some minerals from the nettle, such as iron and calcium. Its value lies in being a mild, caffeine-free drink.
What Are the Benefits of Nettle Tea?
With no caffeine and some minerals, nettle tea can be part of a balanced diet as a light herbal tea served hot.
This is general information; nettle tea is a beverage and is not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Nettle Tea
Good nettle tea is made from dry, fresh-smelling leaves with a vivid green-to-dark color; pale, damp, or weak-smelling products have lost freshness. Choose a product gathered from a clean source.
- Dried leaves should be vivid green to dark in color
- The aroma should be grassy and fresh
- Pale color and moisture are signs of age
How to Store Nettle Tea
Store nettle tea in a sealed container in a cool, dry place; protect it from moisture and light, which reduce its aroma. Keep it separate from strongly scented spices to preserve its flavor.
How to Use Nettle Tea in the Kitchen
Nettle tea is served hot and can be sweetened with honey or lemon. It is also used as iced tea and in blends with other herbal teas. Young nettle leaves can also be blanched and used in dishes.
How to Brew Nettle Tea
Add one 5 ml measure of dried nettle leaves to boiling water and steep for 5–10 minutes, then strain; sweeten with honey and lemon if desired. Dried leaves are no longer stinging and can be used safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is nettle tea stinging?
No. The hairs that make nettle sting are deactivated by drying and steeping it in hot water, so the tea can be consumed safely.
Does nettle tea contain caffeine?
No. Nettle tea is an herbal tea and contains no caffeine, so it can be consumed at any time of day.
Can nettle be used in food?
Yes. Young nettle leaves can also be blanched, which removes their sting, and used in soups, savory pastries, and vegetable dishes.