THe HUMBLE NETTLE

Ah, May! The month when nature truly awakens, bringing back the buzzing bees, blooming flowers, and, of course, the beloved stinging nettles. Yes, you read that right. While most people run in terror at the sight of these prickly plants, I'm here to tell you that they're actually your new BFF - especially when it comes to taking a relaxing, rejuvenating nettle bath.
And trust me, I know what I'm talking about. Every May, I hit the woods armed with gloves, scissors, and a canvas bag, ready to pick up some fresh nettles. It's a ritual I look forward to every year because because it's a perfect excuse to get out in nature, bask in the sunshine, and perhaps enjoy a little al fresco dining ;)

As soon as I get home, I start boiling water and prepare a big pot for the nettles. I steep the nettles in the hot water for a few minutes before letting them simmer. I prefer not to add any essential oils, but feel free to jazz things up a bit if that's your style. The scent alone is enough to make me feel like I'm floating on a cloud.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "A nettle bath? Are you out of your mind? The last thing I want is to bathe in a plant that stings me!" Believe it or not, the heat treatment removes any stinging sensation from the nettles. And even if it didn't, it's totally worth it! Nettles have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties, and taking a nettle bath is one of the best ways to reap the benefits.

After finishing up my bathing preparations, I'm finally ready to take the slide into a steaming bath of nettle-infused goodness. I usually soak in the mixture for a good 10 minutes before adding a bit of hot water to maintain the temperature for another 10 minutes. The bath is incredibly refreshing and revitalizing. The nettle scent is unlike any other; it's definitely nothing like flowery perfumes. It's the true scent of nature.

And now the word of advice:

• The best time to harvest young nettles is in the early spring when the first leaves appear. It is recommended to wear gloves and use scissors or shears to cut the top 2-3 pairs of leaves and stems.
• Also, I choose wild nettles over garden and park nettles. When picking nettles, it's important to look for clean places that are free from pollutants and toxins (and dogs' urine). 

If you're not quite ready to take the plunge with a nettle bath, you can still enjoy the benefits of nettles by sipping on a cup of nettle tea. Here's a simple recipe to get you started.

A few notes on this recipe: it's best to use fresh nettles, as they'll have the most flavour and potency. And while you may be tempted to sweeten your tea with sugar, I recommend drinking it plain to fully experience the flavour of the nettles. Finally, make sure to drink your nettle tea hot - trust me, cold nettle tea is pretty disgusting.