Purple Dead Nettle Medicinal Health Benefits & Uses
Just a weed? Absolutely not! Purple Dead Nettle is a perennial “weed” known for its purple flowers. However, it is edible and possess many medicinal qualities. Learn multiple ways how we use it!
Purple dead nettle is hardy perennial usually found clumped together. It grows all over the U.S. in ditches, yards, fields, and along roadways and forest edges. It loves sunny spots and moist, well-drained soil but may be seen in partially shady spots as well, throughout the spring.
Purple dead nettle HISTORY
Purple dead nettle is often spotted from far away in large patches as it covers the ground with little purple flowers. But be careful, don’t get confused with its look-a-like, henbit. You’ll need to examine the stalk, leaves and flowers to confirm it is purple dead nettle.
Its name could also be confused with stinging nettle, but they are not related, and you won’t find any barbs or stinging from purple dead nettle. Purple dead nettle (Lamium purpureum) is actually part of the mint family (no mint taste though) with soft and fuzzy leaves. This plant of weed has multiple health benefits.
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HEALTH BENEFITS OF Purple dead nettle
Dead nettle is an antioxidant with a good source of vitamins (especially A and C) and Iron. It contains anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties making it a great addition for the homestead medicine cabinet.
Dried purple dead nettle leaves can be used in a tea as a natural diuretic and to help treat urinary tract infections. But use with caution as it can also have a laxative effect.
Fresh leaves can be applied to wounds as a poultice or dry the leaves and make a salve to have available year-round to help heal bruises and minor cuts.
USES FOR Purple dead nettle
Culinary uses include adding purple dead nettle leaves and/or flowers to any dish like you would spinach or leafy greens such as salads, quiches or soups. It is usually added in moderation due to the adverse texture from the hairy leaves. You can also blanch and freeze for later use.
Here are some of my other favorite recipes and how to use them. You can also watch our video on how to make them here:
Purple dead nettle tincture
Harvest leaves and flowers from purple dead nettle and let dry on counter or in dehydrator. Place in a vessel large enough to hold and cover with vodka. Cover the vessel and store in a cool dark place for 3-4 weeks. Strain into a clean dark jar (amber). Label and store up to one year.
purple dead nettle infused oil
Harvest enough flowers/leaves to fill your clean dry jar. Pour extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil over until completely submerged. Cover the jar with a cloth and place in a sunny warm location. Be sure to keep leaves submerged so they don’t mold. In 4-6 weeks, strain the oil. To use, rub oil on tight muscles or stiff joints. It is also great for dry skin and can even rub on the delicate skin surrounding the eyes.
purple dead nettle tea
Steep chopped 2-3 Tbsp of purple dead nettle leaves and/or flowers in one cup of hot water for 8-20 minutes (the longer you steep, the more potent). Strain and enjoy.
sore throat spray
Put 2 Tbsp purple dead nettle tincture or tea, 2 Tbsp raw honey, and 1/2 tsp peppermint extract or fresh mint leaves to your desired taste in a spray bottle and mix up. Spray in back of throat as needed.
salve
In an oven safe bowl, add ½ cup dried dead nettle leaves to one cup of liquid coconut oil or olive oil. Place in 200 degree oven for two hours to infuse. Remove from oven and allow to cool. Strain out nettle and save the oil. Add three tablespoons beeswax and return to oven to melt together. Pour infused oil into a jar and cover tightly. To use: rub a quarter sized amount all over bruises or minor cuts to aid in healing.
purple dead nettle pesto
Purple dead nettle pesto is quite good. You’ll need: 3 cups purple dead nettle leaves/flowers (packed), 5 garlic cloves, 1/3 cup nuts (pecans, walnuts, etc.), 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 2 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice, 2-4 pinches sugar, 3/4 cup parmesan cheese, 1/2-1 cup olive oil. Harvest fresh purple dead nettle flowers and leaf tops. Rinse and dry. In a food processor or using a mortar/pestle, blend all ingredients except the olive oil. Slowly drizzle olive oil over until you reach your desired consistency.
References & Additional Sources
We have gathered our knowledge of medicinal herbs/plants from the following resources over the years. Check them out here!
**At Centennial Roots, we prioritize the safety of our followers and encourage informed decisions about health matters. The information on this website is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Centennial Roots is not liable for risks associated with using the information on its site.
