Unfortunately, the nettle does not have a particularly good reputation. Getting up close and personal with her takes courage. But: Their leaves do not only contain nettle toxins. They are used in medicine, in the kitchen and in the green paradises of many organic gardeners.

Insects do not mind the stinging hairs on the nettle leaves

What are the leaves like?

Depending on the species, the leaves of the nettle differ. It may be of interest to you that the leaves of the stinging nettle contain more potent nettle poison (contact is more painful) than the leaves of the stinging nettle.

Characteristics that the leaves of all nettle species have in common are:

  • opposite lying about the bristly stems
  • clinging to stem
  • elliptical to ovate leaf blade
  • serrated edge
  • green colour
  • pointed end
  • existing stipules

The nettle poison - where exactly is it located?

Most of the stinging hairs in which the nettle poison sits are on the upper side of the leaves. They are long tubes, the tops of which are as brittle as glass. When touched, the tips burst and the nettle poison, which is located in the lower part of the tube, is injected upwards into the skin.

Pick the leaves

From April - and in mild areas as early as March - the first nettle leaves can be picked. The ideal period for picking the leaves is between May and June. Ideally, only collect the young leaves. These taste the best.

Versatile: tea, spinach, liquid manure, mulch, etc.

The nettle leaves are safe to eat. They can be used fresh, dried or previously frozen in the kitchen. For example, they are suitable for:

  • salads
  • tea
  • smoothie
  • juices
  • stews
  • soups
  • herbal dips
  • steamed vegetables (spinach)
  • casseroles
  • omelettes

You can also use the leaves for mulching or to make nettle manure. The liquid manure can be used as a fertilizer, pesticide and herbicide, among other things. Unlike chemicals, this does not harm the environment.

Nutritious and healing

Here are other benefits of nettle leaves:

  • high in protein
  • Vitamin C rich
  • iron rich
  • rich in calcium
  • sweet and sour taste
  • have a flushing and anti-inflammatory effect
  • Use among others for/against: Rheumatism, intestinal diseases, urinary tract infections, high blood pressure
  • accumulate more nitrate with age

tips

Don't harvest the leaves after it has rained, as they will have lost a lot of their flavor.

Category:

Herbs