{"product_id":"stinging-nettle-leaf-urtica-dioica","title":"Stinging Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica)","description":"\u003cp\u003eStinging Nettle\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLatin: Urtica dioica\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFamily: Urticaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEnergy: Cool to neutral, slightly drying (leaf)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFlavor: Mineral-rich, mildly saline\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eParts traditionally worked with: Leaf, root, seed\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCategory: Kidney yin tonic, nutritive\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLocation: Native to Europe and now widely naturalized throughout North America, often thriving in nutrient-rich soils, river bottoms, meadows, and disturbed ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTraditional and Historical Appreciation:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor centuries, nettle has been valued as both a nourishing food and a versatile herb. The tender spring shoots have long been gathered as one of the season's most nutrient-dense wild greens, while the strong fibers of the stem were historically woven into cloth throughout Europe.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHerbal traditions have called upon nettle leaf to support vitality, nourishment, healthy circulation, skin integrity, and urinary tract function. The seeds and roots have likewise earned a place in traditional Western herbalism as restorative tonics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNutritional Profile:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNettle is renowned for its abundance of chlorophyll, vitamins A, C, E, and K, B vitamins, protein, and a broad spectrum of minerals including calcium, magnesium, potassium, silica, iron, manganese, phosphorus, zinc, and chromium.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTraditional Preparations:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eYoung spring leaves are often lightly steamed, sautéed, or added to soups and broths after wilting, which neutralizes the sting. Dried leaf may be powdered and incorporated into soups, stews, and other foods throughout the year as a mineral-rich addition.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNettle leaf is also traditionally prepared as a long infusion:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e* ¼ cup dried nettle leaf\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e* 1 quart freshly boiled water\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlace the herb in a quart-sized jar, cover with hot water, and steep overnight. Strain and enjoy the following day, warm or chilled.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHarvesting: Young leaves are traditionally gathered in spring (April–May), seeds in mid to late summer when ripe, and roots in autumn.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCultivation: Nettle flourishes in fertile, moisture-retentive, well-drained soils with partial shade to full sun. It readily spreads through rhizomes and can be propagated by division.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlant Identification: Stinging nettle is a perennial herb that commonly reaches two to six feet in height. Its square, grooved stems bear opposite pairs of dark green, sharply toothed leaves with a pointed tip and heart-shaped base. Both stems and leaves are covered in fine hairs, including hollow silica-tipped trichomes responsible for the plant's characteristic sting. Small green flowers emerge from the leaf axils, and the plant often forms extensive colonies through underground rhizomes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eContraindications:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFresh nettle leaves and stems can cause temporary stinging and skin irritation upon contact. The sting is neutralized through cooking, drying, or processing.Avoid consuming raw leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIndividuals taking medications such as lithium, digoxin, or certain diuretics should consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before working with nettle preparations.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis information is intended for education and general reference only and is not medical advice. If there are medical questions, medication interactions, pregnancy, or chronic conditions, consult a qualified healthcare practitioner.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.*\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tulsi \u0026 Juniper Apothecary","offers":[{"title":"1 ounce","offer_id":45332360200261,"sku":null,"price":3.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0743\/9577\/9141\/files\/00-product-1780428700386-rein.jpg?v=1783787871","url":"https:\/\/shop.tulsijuniperapothecary.com\/products\/stinging-nettle-leaf-urtica-dioica","provider":"TulsiJuniperApothecary","version":"1.0","type":"link"}