Jody's Journal
The Most Underrated Weed in Britain
August Part One · Early August
August brings the nettle seed harvest, so this month I want to give the humble stinging nettle the attention it deserves. Most people walk past it, or curse it, yet leaf and seed together make one of the most nourishing herbs we have growing wild in Wales.
The Most Underrated Weed in Britain
Nettle is the plant most people step around, yet it is one of the most nourishing herbs growing in Britain. The leaf is rich in iron, calcium and magnesium along with vitamins A, C and K, traditionally used to support natural energy, joint comfort and seasonal allergies. The seed is a different gift altogether, long valued as a restorative tonic for vitality, stamina and recovery. Look for the short, drooping seed clusters growing from the stem, as these are the female plants traditionally harvested by herbalists.
Want to learn more?
Every plant mentioned here is covered in much greater detail in my book, Healing with Nature: Plant Wisdom, where I share how I identify, harvest and work with these wonderful herbs throughout the seasons.
You'll also find many of these herbs available as handcrafted tinctures, infused oils and salves in the Heart of Wales Remedies shop, alongside our detoxes and bundles.