*Disclosure: Affiliate links may be included. All opinions are my own.*
There’s something about early spring that feels both hopeful and exhausting.
The days are getting longer… but we’re still shaking off winter. Okay, we aren’t even shaking it off yet. We had a crazy nice warm up of 50 degrees for a few days, then back to below freezing temps. We are starting to whine as a society, ha!
The kids are restless.
Our energy feels thin. Mostly, we crave sunshine again.
And this is where one of my favorite humble herbs quietly shines:
Nettle.
Not glamorous.
Not trendy.
But deeply nourishing.
I love putting together this herbal spotlight series because I am learning along the way so I love compiling what I am learning to share with all of you! Plus, it’s a great way for me to go back and re-read everything!
Meet Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Urtica dioica — commonly known as stinging nettle — is one of the most mineral-rich herbs in traditional herbalism.
Yes, it stings when fresh.
But once dried or steeped, it becomes one of the most nourishing daily herbs you can use for your whole family (older kids included).
Why Nettle Is Perfect for March
Early spring is traditionally considered a time of rebuilding and replenishing. After winter, our bodies often need:
- Mineral support
- Gentle detox support
- Adrenal nourishment
- Allergy preparation
Nettle does all of this quietly and consistently.
It’s rich in:
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Vitamin C
- Chlorophyll
Think of it less like a “medicine” and more like a deeply nourishing food.
How We Use Nettle in Our Home
Here’s what it looks like for us:
1. Long Infusion Tea
This is my favorite.
- 1 tablespoon dried nettle
- 1 quart hot water
- Steep 4+ hours (or overnight)
Strain and sip throughout the day.
It’s earthy and green tasting — I sometimes add lemon or a little raw honey.
2. Spring “Energy” Blend
I’ll mix nettle with:
- Red raspberry leaf
- Oatstraw
- A little peppermint
It feels like a nervous system hug during the homeschool day.
3. Allergy Prep
We start drinking nettle regularly a few weeks before things bloom heavily.
It supports the body’s natural histamine response. I am hoping this helps my son a ton! His allergies have always been so bad that his eyes swell mostly shut so if this helps as much as I have heard, I promise to come back and tell you all about it!
Nettle & Growing Kids
I especially love nettle for preteens and teens.
This stage of growth demands a lot:
- Rapid physical development
- Hormonal shifts
- Emotional ups and downs
Mineral-rich herbs like nettle gently support the body without forcing anything.
It feels aligned with how we approach homeschooling too — support, not pressure.
A Gentle Note on Safety
- Avoid fresh nettle unless you know how to handle it properly.
- If pregnant, nursing, or managing a medical condition, check with a qualified practitioner.
- Introduce slowly and observe.
As always, herbs are tools — not magic fixes.
Also, I am not a doctor! So do your own research.
Why I Love This Herb So Much
Nettle reminds me that strength doesn’t have to be loud.
It grows wild.
It thrives in hard soil.
It nourishes quietly.
And in March — when we’re not quite winter and not quite spring — that feels exactly right.
