Nettle Tea

What Is Nettle Tea?

Nettle tea (Urtica dioica) is a caffeine-free herbal tea brewed from the dried leaves of the nettle plant. In nature, nettle is known for its stinging hairs when touched; but drying and brewing with hot water neutralizes these stinging hairs.

When brewed, it gives a light green-yellow color and a grassy, mildly earthy taste. It is consumed hot as a soft, caffeine-free herbal tea.

Nutritional Value of Nettle Tea

Unsweetened brewed nettle tea provides no energy; it contains no caffeine and has some minerals (such as iron and calcium) from the nettle plant. Its value lies in being a caffeine-free, gentle drink.

What Are the Benefits of Nettle Tea?

With its caffeine-free nature and mineral content, nettle tea, as a light herbal tea drunk hot, can be considered part of a balanced diet.

This information is general; nettle tea is a beverage, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Nettle Tea

Good nettle tea consists of dry, vivid dark-green, grassy-fresh smelling leaves; pale, moist, or weak-smelling products have lost their freshness. Products harvested from a clean source are preferred.

• Dry leaves should be vivid dark green
• Smell should be grassy-fresh
• Pale color and moisture are signs of aging

How to Store Nettle Tea

Nettle tea is stored in a sealed box in a dry, cool place; it should be protected from moisture and light, which reduce its aroma. Keeping it separate from fragrant spices preserves its taste.

Using Nettle Tea in the Kitchen

Nettle tea is brewed hot and drunk; it can be sweetened with honey or lemon. It is also used as an iced tea and in blends with other herbal teas. The young leaves of nettle are also boiled and used in dishes.

How Is Nettle Tea Brewed?

A dessertspoon of dried nettle leaf is added to boiling water and steeped for 5–10 minutes, then strained; it can be sweetened with honey and lemon as desired. Dried leaf is not stinging, so it can be used safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does nettle tea sting?

No; the hairs that make nettle sting are neutralized by drying and brewing with hot water, so the tea can be drunk safely.

Does nettle tea contain caffeine?

No; nettle tea is a herbal tea and contains no caffeine, so it can be drunk at any time of day.

Is nettle used in cooking?

Yes; young nettle leaves, once boiled (removing their sting), are also used in soups, pastries, and vegetable dishes.