This dual-purpose tea taps into the healing power of nettle — a plant long hailed in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and diuretic properties. Often misunderstood because of its sting, nettle turns into a therapeutic powerhouse when brewed correctly. It’s paired with optional herbs that elevate its calming effects on the skin, reduce itching, and support overall detox.
The best part? You can drink it to help your body internally manage inflammation and allergic responses — and apply it topically to irritated skin for immediate, localized relief.
Perfect for flare-ups caused by environmental triggers, bug bites, or irritant plants like poison ivy or stinging nettle itself, this remedy is gentle enough for frequent use and strong enough to make a difference.
🌿 Ingredients (for internal and topical use):
| Ingredient | Quantity | Benefits & Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Dried nettle leaves | 2 tsp or 1 handful fresh | Anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, mineral-rich |
| Water | 2 cups | Solvent base for infusion |
| Calendula petals (optional) | 1 tsp | Skin-soothing, antimicrobial, anti-itch |
| Chamomile flowers (optional) | 1 tsp | Calming, anti-inflammatory, great for skin & nerves |
| Raw honey (optional) | 1 tsp | Soothing sweetness, adds antimicrobial benefits |
| Lemon slice (optional) | 1 slice | Brightens flavor, promotes detox |
🧑🔬 Instructions: Full Preparation Guide
🫖 Step 1: Gather & Handle Herbs with Care
- Use gloves when handling fresh nettle. Even after harvesting, it can sting until dried or boiled.
- Measure out 2 teaspoons of dried nettle (or one fresh handful), and prep any optional herbs. If using calendula and chamomile, make sure they’re organic and free from contaminants.
🔥 Step 2: Boil Water
- Bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil in a clean, non-metallic pot or kettle.
- Turn off the heat and let the water sit for 30 seconds — very hot but not aggressively boiling is ideal for herbal infusions.
🌿 Step 3: Infuse the Tea
- Place your herbs into a teapot or mug. If available, use a tea infuser or reusable tea bag.
- Pour the hot water over the herbs. Cover and allow to steep for 10–15 minutes.
- You’ll see the water turn greenish, signaling a strong infusion.
☕ Step 4: Strain & Enjoy
- Strain the tea into a cup for drinking.
- Add optional honey or a squeeze of lemon if using internally.
🧴 Step 5: Topical Use Preparation
- Let some of the tea cool to room temperature.
- Soak a clean cloth or cotton pad in the cooled tea.
- Apply gently to affected skin for 5–10 minutes.
- Repeat 2–3 times a day as needed.
- The topical tea can be stored in the fridge for up to 48 hours (sealed in a glass jar).
⚕️ Health & Skin Benefits Overview
- ✨ Internal Anti-inflammatory: Nettle reduces internal triggers that cause skin flare-ups like hives or eczema.
- 🌬️ Natural Antihistamine: Helps regulate histamine response from seasonal allergies or contact reactions.
- 🧴 Topical Soother: Brings fast relief to itching, burning, and mild swelling.
- 💦 Detox & Cleansing: Supports liver and kidney function — helping flush triggers from the body.
- 🌿 Rich in Nutrients: Contains iron, silica, and flavonoids — good for skin repair and resilience.
💡 Tips, Variations & Cautions
- 🌼 Want extra topical power? Blend in witch hazel extract for astringent cooling effect.
- 🫙 Store strained tea in a spray bottle for easy misting on skin (always test for sensitivity).
- 🔁 Make a big batch and freeze in ice cube trays — ideal for sunburn or spot relief.
- ⚠️ Nettle can act as a mild diuretic — ensure hydration when drinking regularly.
- 👶 Avoid topical use on babies or broken skin unless advised by a practitioner.