Characteristics of Nettle Tea
- Dried bark
- Natural product
- Valid for up to 2 years
- Shipped within 24 business hours
- Over 20,000 orders shipped
- 30-day return policy
What is nettle
Nettle is a plant native to temperate climates and is part of the Urticaceae family1, known for causing irritation when in contact with the skin. In fact, this is its main and best-known characteristic. Nettle produces small flowers that may be lighter in color, and some of its leaves are heart-shaped. Its serrated edges are very distinctive and have a kind of powder on the leaves that makes contact quite irritating if it touches the skin. Nettle, which was once used by the textile industry, has now become a great health ally, as it is affordable, easy to find, and helps in the recovery from several illnesses2. 
How to make and take nettle tea
Nettle tea is the most common and recommended way to consume the plant. It can be safely consumed by people of any age, as long as they do not have allergies to the plant. It is recommended to make a tea with five nettle leaves or one tablespoon in 1 liter of filtered water. Boil the water and leave it for about 3 to 4 minutes, waiting for it to come to a boil before removing it from the heat. Next, let the tea rest for at least 10 minutes before drinking. Nettle tea can be stored for up to three days in the refrigerator and consumed gradually, about half a glass three times a day. Sweetening is recommended to make consumption easier. For people with diabetes, sweetener is advised.
Nettle Soup Recipe
An unusual but just as effective use as tea, nettle soup can be quite successful, as it resembles a Portuguese-style green soup and preserves the same properties as the tea. The nettle soup recipe is very simple. You will need: 2 bunches of nettle
2 onions
2 garlic cloves
1 leek
300g potatoes
100g good-quality meat
Salt and pepper
1 vegetable bouillon cube
1 tablespoon of margarine or butter
To make it, simply sauté the garlic in margarine and, as soon as it browns, add the meat cut into cubes. When the meat is browned, add 2 liters of boiling water. Add the remaining ingredients and cook for 15 minutes in a pressure cooker over low heat. 
Precautions
Special care must be taken when using fresh nettle. It is recommended to use gloves when cleaning, as well as running water and to disinfect with chlorine. Use one tablespoon of chlorine for each liter of water and, after cleaning, leave the nettle soaking for about 10 minutes before preparing it for consumption. This care helps prevent contamination by any bacteria that may be present in the medicinal plant. If there are burns from the irritating part of the nettle, lemon with baking soda can greatly help reduce discomfort. Older nettle leaves cause more irritation than younger ones, so the greener leaves should be handled with greater caution. The recommended use is based on its traditional use.
