How to Treat Allergies with Stinging Nettle

Introduction

Do you have allergies? Does taking prescription or over the counter allergy medication not work for you? Maybe you just want to treat your allergies naturally. That's where stinging nettle (Urtica Dioica) comes in.

Stinging nettle is one of the best herbs I have found for treating allergies naturally. In fact, it is one of my favorite herbs to take daily because that's the best way to make sure that your allergies are under control.

The best way to take Stinging Nettle for allergies is in the form of a strong tea. This tea is brewed for longer than the normal time. Even though the tea is strong, the herb is pretty gentle. The following tips will help you in making a cup for yourself.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions for Making Stinging Nettle Infusion

Things You'll Need

• 1 cup Dried stinging nettle leaves
• 1 qt. Mason jar with lid
• Boiling water

Steps

1

Step One

Boil water in a tea kettle or in a non-alluminum pan. Stainless steel is best.

2

Step Two

Add the dried stinging nettle to the glass mason jar.

3

Step Three

When water starts boiling, pour over the dried stinging nettle to the top. Secure the lid tightly.

4

Step Four

Keep the mason jar on the countertop and let the stinging nettle steep fore 4 to 8 hours. I usually do it overnight. When the nettle is ready, it will be a dark green color.

5

Step Five

Strain the infusion well before use--you don't want to consume the leaves.

6

Step Six

There are several ways you can serve the stinging nettle infusion. You can pour it over ice and drink it cold, add it to fruit juice, or reheat it and sweeten with honey or drink unsweetened. There are no restrictions. My favorite ways are to pour it over ice or heat it up. I don't need to sweeten it because it is mild tasting.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the lid is fastened tightly.
• You can refrigerate the stinging nettle infusion for 24 hours or so.
• Drink 2 to 4 cups a day until your symptoms are relived. After that you can drink a cup a day.
• Do not use the root. Only use the leaves.
• Do not take stinging nettle if you are taking medicine that prevents blood clots. Nettle leaves contain vitamin K.