Have you ever wished for a refreshing summer drink that’s both delicious and health-beneficial? Stinging Nettle-Ade (Nettle Iced Tea) might be just what you’re looking for. This sugar-free lemonade infused with nettle tea is perfect for those warm spring afternoons when you need something revitalizing.

If you haven’t heard of it before, this drink brings the nutritious benefits of stinging nettles—rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium—right to your glass. Best of all, it’s easy to make, which means you can whip up this refreshing beverage with ingredients you already have at home. Stay hydrated and enjoy the unique, slightly tangy flavor of Nettle-Ade all season long!
Enjoying the Benefits of Stinging Nettle-Ade (Nettle Iced Tea)
Drinking Stinging Nettle-Ade (Nettle Iced Tea) isn’t just about quenching your thirst; it’s also about taking in a variety of health benefits. This vibrant green drink, loaded with good-for-you ingredients, is a way to enjoy the best that nature has to offer. Here’s why you should consider making Stinging Nettle-Ade a regular part of your spring and summer routine.

- Vitamins and Minerals: Nettle tea is a fantastic source of vitamins A and C. These vitamins are crucial for immune function, skin health, and preventing inflammation. Nettles are also loaded with iron, which helps prevent anemia by boosting the production of red blood cells.
- Bone Health: Thanks to a high calcium content, drinking nettle tea can contribute to strong bones and teeth. This natural calcium source is easily absorbed by the body, making it especially beneficial for anyone looking to maintain or improve bone health.
- Women’s Reproductive Health: Nettle is a go-to tonic for women, especially when dealing with menstrual issues. It’s often used by people trying to conceive and has been suggested as beneficial during pregnancy. (Always consult a doctor before using any herbal remedies during pregnancy.)
- Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Nettle tea’s anti-inflammatory compounds can help reduce symptoms of arthritis and other joint pain conditions, making it a soothing option for those with chronic pain.
- Urinary Health: As a diuretic, nettle tea helps to flush out toxins and bacteria from the urinary tract, which can reduce the incidence and severity of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Allergy Relief: In the spring, seasonal allergies can be quite bothersome. Drinking nettle tea is known to help reduce symptoms such as sneezing and itching due to its natural antihistamine effects.
- Reduced Fatigue: Thanks to its rich iron content, incorporating nettle tea into your routine can help combat fatigue and improve energy levels. This is especially helpful if you’re prone to anemia or iron deficiency.
- Hydration: Staying properly hydrated is vital, and Stinging Nettle-Ade can help you stay on top of your hydration game. The splash of sparkling water acts like a hydrant, instantly revitalizing your body and mind.
Ingredients Needed
To start, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

Dried nettle leaves: I usually forage and dry these myself. Early spring is ideal when the leaves are young and tender. But if foraging isn’t your thing, no worries. High-quality, organic dried nettles are easily found at health food stores or online.
Raw honey: A great choice for this recipe, as it’s natural, sweet, and adds a unique flavor. Alternatives include agave nectar, maple syrup, or stevia for a lower-calorie option.
Preserved lemon: Adds a tangy, refreshing lemon flavor. To make your own, slice lemons and pack them in salt, then let them sit for a month. They last long and add amazing flavor to many dishes, not just drinks.
Sparkling water: Provides a bubbly finish.
How to Make Nettle Tea

- Measure the Nettles: Start by measuring out about two teaspoons of dried nettle leaves per cup of water. If you’re making a larger batch, adjust the quantity accordingly.
- Boil the Water: In a kettle or pot, bring fresh water to a boil. Using clean, filtered water can help in achieving the best-tasting tea.
- Add Nettles to Water: Add your dried nettles in a teapot, a stainless steel pot, or even directly in your mug if you prefer. Pour the boiling water over the nettle leaves.
- Steep the Nettles: Allow the nettles to steep in the boiling water for about 15 minutes. This steeping time is crucial as it helps to release all the beneficial compounds and the delicate flavors into the water.
- Strain the Leaves: After the steeping period is over, use a fine mesh strainer to remove the nettle leaves from the tea. If you used a tea infuser, simply lift it out of the water.
- If you prefer a stronger tea, you can let the nettles steep a bit longer or use more leaves. Conversely, for a milder flavor, use fewer leaves or reduce the steeping time.
Make the Stinging Nettle-Ade

- Muddle the Honey and Preserved Lemon: Begin by adding a tablespoon of honey into a glass. If you’re using raw honey, that’s even better as it adds a rich flavor. Now, take a small chunk of preserved lemon and muddle it with the honey. This combination delivers a sweet and tangy base that will elevate your drink. Preserved lemons offer a deep, intense flavor you won’t get from fresh lemon juice.
- Add Nettle Tea: Once you have your honey and lemon mix ready, it’s time to add the nettle tea. Pour about ½ cup (120 ml) of the prepared nettle tea into the glass. This strong nettle tea infusion is the star of this drink, bringing a unique earthy flavor packed with nutrients.
- Top It Off with Sparkling Water: To give your nettle-ade a fizzy, refreshing twist, pour in a cup of sparkling water. This step makes the drink light and bubbly, perfect for a warm day. The sparkling water balances the sweetness and tanginess from the honey and lemon.
Stinging Nettle-Ade (Sugar-Free Nettle Iced Tea)
Ingredients
- 8 g dried nettle leaves and stems 8 tablespoons
- 960 ml boiling water 4 cups
- Ice cubes (as needed)
- honey per serving (4 tablespoons total) 1 tablespoon
- preserved lemon or a ½-inch chunk per serving (4 chunks total) ⅛
- 240 ml sparkling water per serving (4 cups total) 1 cup
Instructions
- Steep the Nettles: Place the dried nettles in a teapot or a nonreactive pot. Pour 4 cups (960 ml) of boiling water over the nettles and let them steep for 15 minutes. Once done, strain the nettles from the water.
- Prepare the Drink: Fill tall glasses with ice. Muddle 1 tablespoon of honey and ⅛ preserved lemon (or a ½-inch chunk) in each glass. Pour in ½ cup (120 ml) of the strong nettle tea, then top off with 1 cup (240 ml) of sparkling water.