Why nettles?

Nettles are everything that a green lifestyle should be, all in one neat little package. Tough, resilient, cheap, with a million uses, nettle was historically used to make ropes and cloth because of its strong fibre. One of the best remedies for nettle stings is actually nettle juice. Internally, young nettles can be eaten whole as a green and are a great source of minerals. Dried nettles can be made into a strong tea that provides the body with calicium and other minerals and is a wonderful energizer. Unlike caffiene or other stimulents that provide a temporary feeling of energy, while leaving you drained later, nettle gives a steady feeling of strength. I turn to nettle infusion when I am under prolonged stress. Nettle infusion is also great for skin and hair.

To make nettle infusion you need:

1. One large glass jar. I like to make my infusions in a French press, it makes it easy to strain the herbs when they are done steeping, and looks much more elegant than a mason jar. You can also use a plastic jar in a pinch, but you'll be pouring boiling water in, so using glass will reduce the number of chemicals leached into your tea.
2. One ounce of dried nettle. Organic is best, Mountain Rose is my go to resource for organic herbs.
3. One quart boiling water.

Pour the water over the nettles, put it in the fridge, let it steep at least 12 hours. The infusion will easily last two days. Drink a couple of cups a day, use the extra as a hair rinse.