While often overlooked as a pesky weed due to their sting, nettles (Urtica dioica) have long been cherished by herbalists for their edible and medicinal qualities. Nettles are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrient-dense greens are the perfect addition to a variety of dishes– and spring is the perfect time to harvest their tender tops…
As an herbalist, gardener, and naturalist, there are many plants that are special to me. But, few are as near and dear to my heart as nettle (Urtica dioica). I first began working with nettle in my early days as an herbalist, after reading about its many beneficial properties in Rosemary Gladstar’s books. That spring, I foraged nettle along the walking trails behind my apartment building. I then baked nettle…
This recipe is an excerpt from the article “Nettle + Mushroom Salt” by Harmonie O’Loughlin featured in the Autumn Vol 4 | Issue 14 | 2025 edition of Botanical Anthology. To learn about the benefits of the ingredients in this salt blend, check out the entire article in the magazine! Our herbal magazine, featuring remedies, recipes and projects with plants for the autumn season, can be purchased as a digital…
This nettle soda bread is one of my favorite quick bread options. It’s quick, delicious, and pairs wonderfully with a hearty soup or a breakfast scramble. It's wonderful when enjoyed warm, slathered with butter and a sprinkle of salt. Nettle is a nourishing addition to this simple bread. It's rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and several other important nutrients. This recipe is a great way to use those lovely nettle…
In my early days as an herbalist, I fell in love with nettle for its incredible nutritive properties. At the time, I lived near wooded walking trails and was excited to find nettle growing along the paths. Often, when I was out foraging in the spring, people would stop and ask, “Why are you collecting that?!” To them, nettle was just a nuisance. But what they didn’t realize is that…
As winter fades and new life begins to bloom, it’s time to celebrate Ostara. This ancient festival, observed on the Spring Equinox, marks the beginning of longer days and the arrival of spring. It’s a time of fertility, renewal, and fresh starts. As the earth awakens, we are blessed with its abundance once more. Eggs, a symbol of fertility and rebirth, hold the promise of a new start and the…
Proper nutrition is essential during pregnancy for the health of both mom and baby. While there is no substitute for a balanced diet, nourishing herbs help to bolster vitamin & mineral intake. Getting adequate nutrients can alleviate a variety of pregnancy woes, as well as more serious complications. It also helps baby to develop optimally, which contributes to better overall health. Additionally, going into the birth and postpartum time well…
Gomasio is a Japanese condiment traditionally made with unhulled sesame seeds (goma) and salt (shio). My rendition of this tasty topping includes nettle and hemp seeds too. Sprinkling a bit of this gomasio over a snack or meal adds flavor and makes it even more nourishing (assuming you’re eating whole foods). Sesame seeds are packed with antioxidants and nutrients, including vitamin B1, B3, B6 & E, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc,…