Learn how to harvest and use your own stinging nettle at home! Larissa and Kate teach us about stinging nettle and share some exciting uses and recipes from the Poughkeepsie Farm Project Herbal Meditation Garden.

Stinging Nettle grows all around the world and is recognized by its heart-shaped leaves with stinging hairs on them. The leaves, flowers, stems and roots can all be used after cooking. Stinging Nettle is extremely nutritious—it is a great source of protein and other vitamins and minerals.

Finally, stinging nettle is used traditionally as a medicinal herbal remedy to relieve seasonal allergies and joint pain, to support healthy blood sugar, and more! When harvesting and using stinging nettle, make sure to wear gloves to protect your hands!

Tea Recipe Supplies

2 handfuls Stinging Nettle leaves
2 cups water
Honey (optional)
Lemon (optional)

Steps

Place nettle leaves in jar or mug.

Pour boiling water over leaves, allow to steep several minutes.

Pour through strainer to remove leaves; save leaves for other recipes and uses.

Add lemon and/or honey if desired, and enjoy!

Pesto Recipe Supplies

4-6 cups stinging nettle leaves (or about 1 cup leaves leftover from tea)
2-3 medium garlic cloves
¼ cup nuts or seeds
¼ cup vegetable or olive oil
2 tsp lemon juice or vinegar
¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

If using raw leaves, place in boiling water 1-2 minutes (using gloves or tongs to handle leaves carefully).

Wring leaves dry with towel.

Combine leaves with remaining ingredients in food processor.

Enjoy with fresh veggies, bread, pasta, meat, salad, etc.