Nettles

NETTLE: Urtica dioica - Stinging nettle - Common nettle.

HABITAT: Widespread

PICK: Spring and early summer BEFORE the flowers (see left) come out.

HEALTH BENEFITS: High in Vitamin C and Vitamin A.  Rich in calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. Believed to help alleviate joint pain.

TIP: Always wear thick gloves to pick stinging nettles and, using scissors, snip the top fresh young leaves straight into a bag.