PURPLE DEADNETTLE
Great weed! No not that kind. I’m talking about the fact it grows everywhere in a lawn and it’s bountiful. Do not over harvest but it’s look alike is HENBIT. Fear not, they are both completely edible!
Purple Dead Nettle Uses Medicinally*
As a medicinal, they are can be used both dried and fresh in herbal teas. They are a natural diuretic and have astringent, and styptic properties. The herbal infusion can be used for helping to stop minor cuts as well as assisting the body in healing bruises.
* do not replace a prescription for herbal medicines. This is a additive to your diet and should be looked into prior to mixing with medicines.
To dry the nettle leaves for later:
-snip off the plant ½” from the ground.
-Remove the leaves by either hand plucking them, or running a sharp knife down the stem.
-Lay the leaves as flat as possible on a dehydrator sheet and dehydrate for 6-8 hours on low.
-You can also dry them on an ungreased baking sheet in a low oven, 175 degrees or less, for 8-10 hours.
To use dried purple nettle in a tea:
-Add 3 Tablespoons dried leaves for every 8 ounces (1 cup) of boiling water.
-Allow to steep for 5-8 minutes, then strain and sweeten to taste.
-Blend with other herbs such as burdock, dandelion root, and milk thistle to make a tea that will naturally support your liver and kidney functions.
To use dried nettle in a purple dead nettle salve:
-In an oven safe bowl, add ½ cup dried leaves to 1 cup of coconut (measured in liquid state) or olive oil
-Place in 200 degree F oven for 2 hours to infuse. Remove from oven and allow to cool.
-Strain the plant matter, and save the oil. Add 3 Tablespoons beeswax and return to oven to allow oil and wax to melt together.
-Pour infused oil into a pint jar and cover tightly. You may add up to 30 drops total essential oils of choice. Try helichrysum, lavender or tea tree oil or a blend of all 3.
-Rub a quarter sized amount all over bruises and minor cuts and scrapes to aid in healing.
Purple Dead Nettle Recipes
As a wild edible, they are naturally full of Vitamins A and C, as well as being a good source of iron. The flavor is rich and earthy and they are easily used in any recipe like you would spinach.
Try them in:
Smoothies
Soups
Stir frys
Casseroles
Salads, (and they go great with dandelion greens too)