Posts Tagged ‘stinging nettle’

What Does Nettle Tea Taste Like?

Friday, November 6th, 2009

In my experience with nettle tea, I’ve often been asked what it tastes like. Many people are put-off by herbal teas and unfairly assume that they won’t like them. It’s sort of like offering a non-vegetarian a soy burger. That horrified look is usually the same one I get when I suggest someone drink nettle herbal tea.

If I’m able to convince them to give it a try, however, most people find nettle tastes quite pleasant. It reminds me a bit of hay, but with some honey and lemon, it’s very good and can even be enjoyed as iced nettle tea.
(more…)

Nettle Tea: Uses Throughout History

Wednesday, November 4th, 2009

The stinging nettle plant, and particularly nettle tea, has been used throughout history for healing and promoting health. Our ancestors knew the power this little herb held, and humans have always had a fascination for the plant. It has even been made the stuff of proverbs, most likely for its ability to both harm and heal.

“Though you stroke the nettle ever so kindly, and yet it will sting you.”

“He that handles a nettle tenderly is soonest stung.”

While it’s difficult to determine when nettle tea was first used, we can assume it was being administered as far back as the Bronze age, when the plant was also used to make cloth.
(more…)

Nettle Tea Side Effects

Sunday, November 1st, 2009

nettle leavesNettle tea is one of the safest herbal preparations in existence, and the side effects are few and rare. Nettle tea benefits far outweigh any potential side effects.

However, there are certain drug reactions and a few possible allergies that may occur in some individuals. It’s best to always consult a physician before taking nettle tea for the first time, or any other herb. Also be aware of any potential nettle tea side effects to make sure you aren’t at risk.
(more…)

Nettle Tea is a Natural Diuretic

Saturday, October 31st, 2009

nettle plantsNettle tea has long been used as a natural diuretic for increasing the flow of urine and treating a variety of kidney, bladder and urinary tract conditions. This is perhaps the greatest of the nettle tea benefits.

In Germany, dried nettle is available by prescription when a safe, natural diuretic is necessary, and there have been numerous studies performed in the country to back-up this use. Animals fed stinging nettle leaves have shown an increase in the amount of urea and chlorides produced by the body.

It is believed that the high content of potassium found in dried nettle leaves contributes to their diuretic properties. Most chemical diuretics are known for leaching potassium from the body, but nettle increases the supply of this vital nutrient. Nettle tea has been used as a diuretic to treat various heart disorders, high blood pressure and chronic venous insufficiency.
(more…)