Nettles

Wild nettles grow prolifically in the Pacific NW, and this past weekend we went and picked these stinging plants to make teas and fresh juice, so the bounty of spring could reward us with a cleanse.

Nettles are gentle on the system, in my experience. They feel soothing, and mildly energizing. The flavor is a savory bitter, very nice when steeped in a tea with vanilla beans. Nettles are adaptogens, meaning they are an overall balancing herb, that regulates the adrenals, thus balancing energy.

One thing to keep in mind while looking to harvest nettles, is the location. Do not pick nettles unless you know you are in a clean environment. Nettles absorb heavy metals from the soil, and if inorganic metals such as lead are present, they will be absorbed into the nettles. Now, I'm not really sure what the plant does in this process, it is possible that they can transmute these compounds into organic and usable material, but this is not tested, so I wouldn't press my luck. Just a thought I recently had, it's good to question information.

Also, please wear gloves when attempting the harvest, they are STINGING nettles :) And wear long pants and closed shoes, unless you want some of the medicine to penetrate into your skin.


Stinging Nettle Super Smoothie
3 cups stinging nettle tea
brew 3 or 4 cups of water with a handful of fresh stinging nettle leaves, one vanilla bean, and a handful of goji berries, over low heat until warmed.
1 cup blueberries
1/4 cup cacao beans or paste
1/4 cup coconut flakes
1 T maca
1 T mesquite
1 tsp shilajit
3 T unfiltered honey
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (optional)
any of your other favorite Superfoods!

Blend all ingredients in a high power blender until frothy. Drink and Enjoy!