Oh nettle, in your humble guise, You teach us lessons, worldly-wise, Of resilience, and of the power, To bloom amidst life's thorniest bower. ~ Bright Raven 

 

I have had a 14 year love affair with Herbalism, but my journey truly blossomed in 2020 when I embarked on Ethnobotany courses at a Raven’s Roots naturalist school nestled at the foothills of the North Cascades in Washington. It was there that I discovered the hidden gems within Nettle, a plant often overlooked as a nuisance, unveiling its abundant medicinal and culinary treasures. 

Nettle's History:

Nettle, also known as Urtica dioica for the more practiced herbalist, is a potent plant with a rich heritage among many different cultures.

If one wanted to offer historical credit for the scientific naming of this plant that would be given Carl Linnaeus who published it in Species Plantarum in 1753. That said, it's important to view the history of such things from multiple perspectives. Although Carl Linnaeus gave us the official scientific name for this plant in 1753, cultures around the world had been using this green wonder long before Carl came on the scene.

Here are just a few examples:

1. Ancient Egyptian: The ancient Egyptians made nettle fibers to create fabrics similar to linen, along with fishing nets and other durable items. 

2. Native American Traditions: Native Americans have a longstanding tradition of brewing nettle to produce infusions.

3. European Culinary Delights: In Europe, nettle has found its way into culinary creations, particularly in the form of nourishing soups made from its leaves.

 

Myths and Symbolism: 

This versatile plant can also be found in our stories of old with poetic prose and symbolism.  

Greek story of Chloris and Zephyrus:

Amidst the gentle whispers of the wind and the rustling of leaves, unfolds the enchanting tale of Chloris and Zephyrus.

Chloris, a nymph of unparalleled beauty, captured the heart of Zephyrus, the tender guardian of the west wind. Their union, blessed by the gods, sparked a cascade of magical events.

So the story goes, as a token of his undying affection, Zephyrus graced Chloris with a wondrous gift - the ability to transform.In a mesmerizing display of nature's splendor, Chloris blossomed into a radiant flower, the very embodiment of her timeless grace and allure. Thus, the stinging nettle emerged, a symbol of enduring love and the delicate harmony between mortal and divine.

Norse and Germanic Folklore:

In Norse mythology, nettles are associated with Thor, the god of thunder and lighting, and Loki, the trickster god. Norse people would also burn nettles during storms to appease Thor and protect their homes. Giving birth to the saying "lightning won't strike into nettles". 

In a similar fashion German folk name for nettle is Donnernessel, which means "thunder nettle". In the Middle Ages, people would throw nettles on their roofs to protect themselves from lightning, hoping to guide it to earth spirits. 

“lightning won't strike into nettles"

In older spiritual beliefs and rituals, nettle takes on a multifaceted role symbolizing protection, healing, and abundance. 

1. Symbolism: Nettle is said to represent protection against negative energies, healing of physical ailments, and the abundance of nature's gifts.

2. Offerings and Gratitude: Nettle leaves are often offered as tokens of gratitude and respect to the earth and its spirits, acknowledging the plant's role in sustaining life and well-being. 

 

Despite nettle’s storied past, much of this knowledge has faded from Western culture, reflecting shifts in our understanding of nutrition and medicine as it once was known.

If your interest has been piqued, stay tuned this month to learn more about the ethnobotany of nettle, including how to harvest it and some beginner recipes. 

Upcoming July Blogs:

• Nettle: Harvest and Source
• Nettle: Recipes
• Nettle: Ritual and Symbolism
• Nettle: Resources 

   

Until next time. Bright Raven out.