Stinging Nettles: The Most Nutritious Weed You're Walking Past

Nettles might be the most nutrient-dense plant growing right outside your door right now, and most people walk past it every day without a second glance. In this episode, we're digging deep into one of herbalism's most beloved plants, sharing everything from its nutritional profile to why Dr. Ed Alstat's discovery of freeze-dried nettles for allergy relief changed the game for Eclectic Herb. You'll hear readings from a 17th century Nicholas Culpeper text right from Chris' personal herbal library, travel through the global history of nettles from Japan to New Zealand to Russia, and learn why herbalists and the Eclectic Physicians have been turning to this plant for centuries. Whether you're managing seasonal allergies, looking to nourish your body after a long winter, or just curious about the weedy green that keeps popping up around you, this episode will make you want to go find some nettles. What's in this episode: Why nettles is one of the most nutrient-dense plants on the planet Nettles for women's health: iron, heavy menses, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and perimenopauseDr. Ed Alstat's discovery of freeze-dried nettles for allergies and what makes Eclectic Herb's nettles different Nicholas Culpeper's 17th century uses, read straight from Chris's library The Eclectic Physicians and how they approached nettles as a pattern-based remedy Ed's origin story: the pharmacist who put on a wig and started asking the wrong questionsNettles World Tour with Chris: New Zealand's Onga Onga, Japan, Russia, and European urticationHow to use nettles: tea, apple cider vinegar infusion, pesto, smoothies, and freshly freeze-dried capsules  Herbal Terms in This Episode: Hemostatic: An herb that helps slow or stop bleeding, useful for heavy menses or wounds. Astringent: An action that tones and tightens tissues and reduces excessive secretions, like a runny nose or weeping wounds. Diuretic: Supports the kidneys in flushing excess fluid and waste from the body. Galactagogue: An herb traditionally used to support and promote breast milk production. Urtication: The practice of deliberately stinging the skin with fresh nettles, historically used in Europe for pain relief and circulation.  We'd love to hear from you! Have you ever used nettles for allergies, as a food, or in some creative way we didn't mention? Share your nettles stories with us on Instagram or TikTok @eclecticherb Full show notes and transcript: eclecticherb.com/blogs/news/stinging-nettles Shop freeze-dried Nettles and Nettles with Quercetin at eclecticherb.com Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook Text Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show!Thanks so much for tuning into Eclectic Herbal Wisdom! We'd love to show our gratitude by giving you a 20% discount on your whole order at eclecticherb.com. Just use the code PODCAST20 at checkout for 20% Off all your herbal goods! 🌿And, if you have time, be sure to reach out and let us know what you think of the show!  At Eclectic Herb we're passionate about bringing you herbs as fresh as plants in the wild!That's why we take the time to gently freeze dry our herbs, right after they've been harvested at the peak of their medicinal potency. We know you'll feel the freeze dried difference in every capsule, every powder, and every bit of herbal love you get at Eclectic Herb! At Eclectic Herb we're proud to stay rooted in tradition, balanced with science, and committed to sustainable herbal products that are better for you and better for the planet since 1982.Over 95% of our freeze dried herbs are grown right here in the US, by small family farmers, and wild crafters that we've cultivated relationships with for over 30 years. They're tending to the plants and the land, ensuring they come back for future generations, and we're getting you the best herbal products out there.You deserve herbs as fresh as nature intended! Get them at eclecticherb.comFollow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube