Herbal Tea Stories: Nettle Tea Benefits: Energy, Skin & Strength
- Astrid van Essen
- 11 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Nettle might not be the first herb that comes to mind when you think of tea, especially if you’ve ever been stung by one, but once dried, it transforms into one of the most nourishing and underrated herbal infusions.
I started drinking nettle tea after reading about its mineral content and traditional use as a spring tonic. It's an excellent tea when I feel run-down, sluggish, or need a gentle boost from nature’s apothecary.
What Is Nettle Tea?
Nettle tea is made from the leaves of the Urtica dioica plant, also known as stinging nettle. Once dried (or carefully handled when fresh), the stings disappear, leaving a vibrant green herb rich in nutrients.
It has a clean, grassy taste—slightly earthy, sometimes compared to mild spinach—and works well on its own or blended with other herbs.
Nettle Tea Benefits
Nettle tea has many benefits and is loved by herbalists for its versatility and nutritional value.
Here's why:
Rich in Minerals
Nettle is packed with iron, calcium, magnesium, and silica, which support bone strength and hair and skin health.
Supports Energy and Vitality
If you’re feeling depleted or low on energy, nettle’s high iron content may help, especially if you’re prone to low levels.
Allergy Support
Nettle is traditionally used to ease seasonal allergies thanks to its natural antihistamine-like properties.
Supports Kidney & Liver Function
Nettle can support healthy elimination and internal balance with mild diuretic and detoxifying properties.
Anti-Inflammatory
It’s known for gently reducing inflammation and benefits those with joint aches or skin issues like eczema.
How to Make Nettle Tea
Ingredients:
1 tbsp dried nettle leaves
250 ml hot water (just off the boil)
Optional: a slice of fresh ginger or a dash of lemon
Method:
Add the nettle leaves to a teapot or mug.
Pour over freshly boiled water and cover.
Steep for 10–15 minutes for a strong infusion.
Strain and sip slowly.
Tip: Nettle tea is an excellent morning tonic—refreshing and energising without caffeine.
Safety Notes
Nettle tea is generally safe, but consult a practitioner if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking blood pressure or blood-thinning medication.
It has a natural diuretic effect—drink plenty of water and avoid overuse.
If using fresh leaves, wear gloves and handle with care until they’re dried or steeped (the sting goes away after heating or drying).
A Nourishing Ritual I Love
I tend to brew nettle tea with intention. I’ll often let it steep longer than usual—up to 20 minutes—to draw out as much goodness as possible.
I also use nettle as part of a seasonal reset—a few days of nettle, lemon balm, and fresh air, and I feel noticeably lighter and clearer in my head.
Bonus Tips: Other Ways to Use Nettle Tea
Hair Rinse: Cooled nettle tea makes a mineral-rich rinse that can help strengthen hair and soothe the scalp.
Face Steam: Use it in a facial steam to support skin clarity and reduce inflammation.
Iron Booster: Blend with peppermint or lemon peel for a refreshing, iron-rich tonic—especially useful if you’re low on energy.
Simmer Pot Addition: Add rosemary, eucalyptus, and citrus to a pot for a mineral-rich, fresh green scent.
In Herbal Blends: Nettle pairs beautifully with oat straw, lemon balm, and raspberry leaf in nourishing tea blends.
Nettle Tea Benefits: Try It Yourself
Nettle grows abundantly in the wild, and if you forage safely and responsibly, gathering just what you need is easy. Wear gloves, snip the tender young leaves, and harvest from clean, chemical-free areas.
Explore more herbal teas in the series:
Next in the series: Dandelion Tea—earthy, cleansing, and quietly supportive.
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