Nettle Herbal Tea

Nettle herbal tea can treat specific internal and external problems, boost energy and the immune system, and encourage overall health of the entire body. It is rich in vitamins, minerals and nutrients, all of which the body easily absorbs when fresh or dried nettle leaves are consumed as tea.

Nettle tea is a powerful anti-inflammatory, mild natural diuretic and health tonic. Some of the conditions treated with nettle include:

- Prostate enlargement
- Bladder problems
- Kidney problems
- Urinary Tract Infections
- High Blood Pressure
- Arthritis
- Rheumatism
- Anemia
- Colds and Coughs
- Congestion
- Diarrhea

Externally, nettle herbal tea is also a powerful healer. It is often used to get rid of dandruff and itchy, flaky scalp, improve the complexion, strengthen nails and treat wounds. Other nettle tea benefits include improving the immune system, energizing the body and introducing huge amounts of vial nutrients to the system.

Nettle herbal tea is easy to make with dried nettle leaves. You'll only need a few ingredients, and the tea can be enjoyed hot or cold, and sweetened or unsweetened. Make a large batch and refrigerate the leftovers, or drink it right away for a delicious hot tea experience. This nettle tea recipe yields 1 8-oz. serving.

Ingredients:

- 8 oz. spring or distilled water
- 1 tbsp. dried nettle leaves
- 1 tbsp. honey or sweetener, optional

Directions:

1.) Place the dried nettle leaves in the bottom of a coffee mug.
2.) Bring the water to a boil, and then pour over the leaves.
3.) Steep the nettle herbal tea for 10 to 15 minutes, or longer for stronger tea.
4.) Strain, sweeten and serve.

If you're using nettle tea bags, you'll use a similar process. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the best results, or follow the above recipe, replacing the dried herbs with one tea bag.

Nettle herbal tea is safe for most applications, but some people may experience rare side effects. Gastric irritation and in some cases, allergies similar to those caused by ragweed have been reported. If you're concerned you may have an allergy to fresh or dried nettle leaves, drink a few sips, wait several hours and see how you feel. If no symptoms are present, you should be fine.

Nettle may interact with some drugs, such as blood thinners and high-blood pressure medications. Do not take nettle herbal tea if you are on any of these medicines. The components in nettle can interfere with their action or make them work too well, resulting in blood-pressure that is too low or blood that is too thick.

Always consult a doctor before taking any new herb. While nettle tea side effects are slim and rare, they do happen. Make sure stinging nettle is safe for you and your particular situation before you decide to make it part of your health care regimen.