What Is Stinging Nettle Leaf?
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a common perennial plant that grows in rich, moist soil across Europe, Asia, North Africa and North America, often near rivers, hedges and farms. Its leaves and stems are covered in fine, hollow hairs that inject a stinging liquid when touched, which every gardener knows.
Drying or cooking completely removes the sting. Dried nettle leaf is soft, deep green and has a fresh, earthy and grassy aroma, a little like spinach or green tea.
Nettle has been used for thousands of years. Its fibers were woven into cloth as strong as linen, and the young spring tops have long been cooked as a wild green in soups, pies and risottos across Europe. Nettle tea is one of the most popular herbal teas in Europe, enjoyed on its own or blended with peppermint, lemon balm or other herbs.
Dried nettle leaf is also crumbled into soups, stews, omelets and bread, and a strong nettle infusion is a traditional hair rinse. Gardeners also use nettle to make a natural plant feed.
Our stinging nettle leaf contains only dried Urtica dioica leaves with nothing added. It is sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.
How to Use Stinging Nettle Leaf
- Nettle tea: Use 1 to 2 teaspoons (about 1.5 to 3 g) per cup (8 fl oz / 250 ml). Pour over boiling water, cover and steep for 10 minutes, then strain.
- Cooking: Crumble a tablespoon into soups, stews, risotto or omelets.
- Hair rinse: Steep a handful in 1 quart (1 liter) of hot water for 30 minutes, strain, cool and use as a final rinse after washing.
Safety
If you take diuretics, blood pressure, diabetes, blood-thinning or lithium medication, consult a qualified healthcare professional before regular use. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Keep out of reach of children.
Read our full guide: How to brew nettle tea: our guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dried nettle sting?
No. Drying completely removes the sting.
What does nettle tea taste like?
It is earthy, grassy and mild, a little like spinach or green tea.
Is nettle tea caffeine free?
Yes. It contains no caffeine.
Can I cook with dried nettle?
Yes. Add it to soups, stews, risotto, omelets and bread.
How should I store nettle leaf?
Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place.
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