a day in the life of a latvian mom

Today’s post will be a bit longer. I love being back to nature and enjoying its wild bounty, like nettles, which offer both nourishment and healing, reminding me of the incredible gifts the earth provides.

While most people rush to get rid of nettles, I welcome them—especially this time of year. Today, I went into the greenhouse and cut a lush bunch of fresh nettle tops. They grow inside – between the bed and greenhouse wall.

Yes, they sting. Yes, they’re a bit wild. But they’re also one of the most powerful plants I know—and I use them for everything from dinner to homemade tea.

Why I Love Nettles

Nettles are a powerhouse of nutrients. They’re full of:

• Iron, calcium, magnesium
• Vitamins A, C, K, and some B vitamins
• Natural antihistamines and anti-inflammatories

They support the immune system, help with fatigue, reduce inflammation, and are known to ease seasonal allergy symptoms. To me, they’re the green gold of early spring.

And they’re good for skin health, too. Nettle tea is said to help with eczema, acne, and rashes. It gently cleanses from the inside, supporting your body’s detox systems, which can reflect in clearer skin.

And let’s not forget—they grow easily, require no care, and are free. A gift from nature, really.

Two Ways I’m Using Nettles This Week

Dinner – Nettle & Oyster Mushroom Pasta

I blanched the nettle leaves to remove the sting and sautéed them with garlic and oyster mushrooms. A splash of cream, some pasta, and a sprinkle of cheese—and we had a meal that felt like spring on a plate. Nettles taste a bit like spinach but with more depth, and they pair beautifully with mushrooms.

Drying for Tea – A Springtime Remedy for Linna

The rest of the nettles are drying in the kitchen. I’m preparing a jar of dried leaves to use later when allergy season kicks in—especially for Linna, who always struggles with spring pollen.

Nettle tea is gentle but effective. When drunk regularly before and during allergy season, it can help reduce sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. I usually blend it with mint or lemon balm for a softer flavor.

I used to think nettles were just an annoying weed. Now, I see them as one of the most useful plants in my garden—food, medicine, liquid fertilizer, and even compost booster when I’m done with them.

So, if you have nettles growing nearby, don’t pull them out just yet. Put on some gloves, grab your scissors, and give them a second look. There’s a lot of healing hidden in those stingy little leaves.

Ilze