Nettles (Urtica dioica) are a type of herbaceous perennial plant that belong to the family Urticaceae. They are native to many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America. Nettles have long, thin leaves that are covered in tiny, stinging hairs, which can cause a painful rash when touched. The plant has small, greenish-yellow flowers that grow in clusters and bloom in the spring or summer. Nettles are commonly found in moist, nitrogen-rich soils, such as near riverbanks or along streams. They are often considered to be a weed, but they have also been used for medicinal purposes and as a food source.

Most of us have had less than friendly encounters with nettles, so you may have avoided them up to now, and who can blame you! However, when they are not annoying gardeners and making small children cry, they can be used for a range of different purposes. Nettles grow abundantly worldwide and have been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years, across many different cultures. The whole plant is edible from root to seed but it must be prepared correctly first, and this can be done in a variety of ways. From teas and tinctures, to soups and stir fries, nettle can be a super nutritious addition to your diet, so let’s take a look at some of the natural health benefits that come with incorporating nettles into your kitchen.