If you’re looking for a refreshing way to enjoy the health benefits of herbs, making your own nettle and lemon syrup is a delightful option. This simple recipe requires no cooking and no added preservatives, capturing the essence of fresh nettles and the vibrant zest of lemon in a syrup that can be used in various delicious ways.

Why Choose Nettle and Lemon?

Nettles are known for their rich nutrient content, including vitamins A, C, and K, iron, and antioxidants, which are great for supporting overall health. Lemon adds a boost of vitamin C and a refreshing flavor, making this syrup not only beneficial but also pleasantly tangy.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh nettle leaves

• The juice of 2 large lemons

• 1 cup honey (optional, for natural sweetness)

• 3 cups filtered water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Carefully wash the nettle leaves to remove any dirt or insects. It’s important to wear gloves when handling nettles to avoid getting stung by their tiny hairs.

• Squeeze the juice from the lemons. Lemon juice is a natural preservative that will help extend the life of your syrup.

2. Infuse the Nettle:

• In a large jar, combine the fresh nettle leaves and lemon juice.

• If you’re using honey, add it to the jar. Honey not only sweetens the syrup but also acts as another natural preservative. If you prefer to avoid sweeteners, you can omit this ingredient.

• Pour the filtered water into the jar, ensuring that all the ingredients are fully submerged.

3. Let It Sit:

• Seal the jar tightly and shake it to mix all the ingredients.

• Let the jar sit at room temperature for about 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the properties of the nettle to infuse into the liquid without the need for heat.

4. Strain the Syrup:

• After 24 hours, strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove all plant matter. Squeeze or press the nettle leaves to extract as much liquid as possible.

5. Bottle and Store:

• Transfer the strained syrup into a clean glass bottle. Store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It should last for several weeks.

How to Use Your Nettle and Lemon Syrup:

• As a Beverage: Mix a tablespoon of syrup into a glass of cold or warm water for a refreshing drink.

• In Tea: Add a bit of syrup to herbal teas for extra flavor and health benefits.

• As a Topping: Drizzle over yogurt, pancakes, or oatmeal for a hint of sweetness.

Conclusion:

This nettle and lemon syrup is a fantastic way to harness the natural benefits of these ingredients in a versatile and delightful form. It’s easy to make, requiring no special cooking skills, and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the healthful qualities of nettle with the refreshing zing of lemon in your homemade, preservative-free syrup.