Stinging Nettles grow 2 to 5 feet tall and the leaves are coarsely toothed, pointed on the ends, and can be several inches long. Smaller, younger leaves are more heart-shaped. Their stalks are square shaped. If you forage them, make sure to use gloves; these plants have little hairs on the bottom of their leaves and stalks that will sting and break off into your skin. These hairs contain several compounds that put the “sting” in their name. However, once you cook, blend, or steep them, they will no longer be little stinging fiends! You can saute, steam, or add the leaves to stir fry, soup, or smoothies. You can dry them and use them for tea during allergy season (great with additional mint leaves)! Or you can make stinging nettle pasta! Nettles are known to be anti-inflammatory and antihistamine, as well as having a long history of use as additional fiber. Whether you forage or order nettles, they are a healthy and wise addition to your routine!
Lymphatics: What Are They and How Can You Support Them?
The lymphatic system is an important part of the body’s immune and circulatory systems. You may have heard of having a “swollen lymph node” before without fully understanding what that means. Lymph nodes are small glands located throughout the body that help filter...
