Also known as the Common Nettle or Stinging Nettle, Urtica dioica is the most prominent member of the nettle family and can be found in North Africa, Asia, Europe and North America.

Nettles are particularly good for blending with other aromatic or flavorful tisanes such as mint, hibiscus and licorice root.

Green Goodness
Though equipped with defensive stinging hairs, the nettle plant has been used for centuries by many traditional cultures as both a nutritional food and a cleansing and restorative herbal tonic.

Harvest
Nettles grow best in the rich soil near streams and moist woodlands. Because of their stinging hairs, they must be harvested using protective gloves. However, when the leaves are dried, they no longer sting. After harvest, the leaves are simply sun or air dried.

Water Temp °F (°C)	Quality of Water	Quantity of Leaf (tsp / 8oz water)	Steep Time (minutes)	Infusions
190°F (88°C)	Best with Spring water	2	5	1

Brew two teaspoons of leaf in eight ounces of spring or filtered water at 195F for five minutes. Can be enjoyed plain or sweetened with honey or maple syrup.

Herbal teas can be brewed in porcelain, ceramic, glass, or stainless steel but never in aluminum or other harmful materials. Be sure to cover the cup or teapot while steeping to prevent the loss of fragrant essential oils and other therapeutic and nutritional elements.