Are there really any benefits of nettles?
Yes! Those spiky green guardians of shady corners and forgotten paths might not be the first plant that comes to mind when considering culinary delights or natural remedies. But beneath their prickly exterior lies a surprising treasure trove of benefits for both humans and insects. Let’s delve into the world and benefits of nettles and discover why they deserve some love and a second (and less prickly) look. 
A Fortifying Feast for Humans
Nettles are nutritional powerhouses, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, iron, calcium, and magnesium. They’re also high in protein and fibre, making them a valuable addition to any diet. This isn’t anything new, evidence indicates that we’ve been eating nettle for quite some time…
- Archaeological finds: Seeds and pollen of nettles have been found in settlements dating back to the Stone Age (around 2.6 million years ago). While not definitive proof of consumption, it suggests a potential link between humans and nettles very early in our history.
- Historical texts: References to nettles as food appear in ancient writings from various cultures. Texts from Greco-Roman and Chinese civilisations mention their consumption, suggesting a widespread practice across different regions.
- Folklore and traditions: Nettles continue to hold a place in some traditional diets and herbal remedies across the globe.
These days we enjoy their natural goodness in a variety of ways.
Nettle Tea is the Easiest Way to Enjoy the Benefits of Nettle
Steep a handful of fresh or dried nettle leaves in hot water for a few minutes. Enjoy the earthy, mineral-rich tea warm or cold, with a touch of honey or lemon for added flavour.
Nettle Soup
Blanch the nettles to remove the sting, then blend them into a creamy soup with your favourite vegetables and spices. This vibrant green concoction is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Nettle Crisps
Cover your freshly picked nettle leaves in a chilli, salt and pepper seasoning mix, then oven bake or air-fry until crispy. It doesn’t take long. These crunchy snacks are a healthy, delicious and unique alternative to the good ol’ crisp. Plus, they make a crowd-pleasing snack on a guided Forest Bathing experience. Unsure what Forest Bathing is? Learn more quickly.
🌿Related – Join a Guided Forest Bathing event in Hampshire
Insect Sanctuary
Nettles also play a crucial role in supporting insect biodiversity. Their leaves provide food for caterpillars of butterflies like the Small Tortoiseshell, Painted Lady and Peacock, while the flowers attract pollinators like bees, wasps and butterflies. Additionally, nettle stems create a safe haven for many beneficial insects, including ladybirds and lacewings. If you’re a gardener then these are your best friend as they help to control garden pests naturally.
Growing Your Own Sting-Free Bounty
If you’re inspired to cultivate nettles in your garden, I recommend choosing a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Wear gloves when handling them, and harvest young leaves before they flower for the mildest flavour. Once they start flowering, I like to snip some right down so that I soon have fresh and tasty growth again. Don’t chop them all down though – sensible harvesting is key to maintaining a healthy nettle population and ensuring their continued benefits for humans and the more-than-human world alike.
Beyond the Sting
Nettles offer a fascinating example of how nature’s seemingly “unpleasant” elements can hold valuable benefits. By embracing their unique properties, we can enjoy their nutritional and medicinal qualities while simultaneously supporting a thriving insect ecosystem. So the next time you encounter a patch of nettles, remember that beneath the sting lies a hidden potential for both delicious dishes and a thriving ecological balance.
Additional Tips
- Always identify plants correctly before consuming them. Consult a reliable field guide or expert if unsure.
- Start with small quantities of nettles when introducing them to your diet.
- Research potential interactions with medications before consuming nettles for medicinal purposes.
- Encourage sustainable nettle harvesting practices to protect this valuable plant.
By appreciating the multifaceted benefits of nettles, we can develop a deeper connection with nature and unlock the hidden resources it offers.
So, why not give this prickly plant a chance and experience its surprising potential?
