Nettle Tea for Colds and Flu
Nettle tea is an excellent remedy for colds and flu symptoms. The stinging nettle plant boosts the body’s resistance against disease, which is helpful in preventing colds and decreasing their duration. A cup of hot tea is a good general remedy for cold sufferers, but making the tea with nettles adds a boost of cold-fighting properties.
What Kind of Nettle Tea is Best for Colds?
For colds, a tea made of nettle leaves, stems and/or roots can be used. All parts of the plant are beneficial for clearing congested lungs, soothing sore throat, drying a runny nose, reducing fever and easing chronic coughing. A simple tea made from dried nettle leaves, however, is generally sufficient for even the most stubborn colds.
You may try combining dried nettle leaves with other herbs, like in my favorite decongestant nettle tea recipe. Healing and flavorful herbs such as peppermint, lemon grass and ginger all work well with nettle, improving taste and increasing the healing properties of your brew. Adding honey will also improve the tea’s soothing effect on the throat.
Fresh nettle tea is generally preferred, but dried leaves or even nettle tea bags may be used to treat colds and flu. Both teas are made using the same process, by steeping the herbal material in hot water, straining and sweetening. There’s nothing more comforting when you have a cold than a hot cup of honey-sweetened nettle tea.
Safely Using Nettle Tea for Colds and Flu
Up to 2 quarts of stinging nettle tea can be safely consumed per day, but be careful that you don’t take nettle in conjunction with other diuretics or prescription medications. See more about nettle tea side effects here.
Although side effects associated with nettle tea are rare, and are typically related to interactions between the herb and prescription medications, it’s important to always consult your doctor before taking any new herb to make sure it’s safe for you.
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