🌿 The Quiet Power of Purple Dead Nettle

By Brooks Apothecary

When most people see purple dead nettle growing wild in their yard, they mow it down without a second thought. But here at Brooks Apothecary, we see it for what it really is: a resilient, nutrient-rich plant ally that offers quiet but powerful support for the body—especially during times of seasonal change.

It might be considered a “weed” by many, but purple dead nettle (Lamium purpureum) is anything but ordinary.

💜 A Wild Plant with Purpose

Dead nettle pops up in early spring—one of the first plants to greet the season. Its fuzzy leaves, purple-tinged tops, and square stems make it easy to identify, and unlike many wild herbs, it has no toxic lookalikes. Even its common "lookalike," henbit, is edible. That makes it a great herb for beginner foragers who want to get familiar with the healing power of local plants.

We wildcraft our purple dead nettle at peak freshness, carefully selecting plants from clean, unsprayed areas. Once harvested, we immediately get to work turning it into a small-batch tincture to preserve its beneficial properties.

🌱 Potential Benefits of Purple Dead Nettle Tincture

• Anti-inflammatory
  May help ease minor inflammation in the body—good for sore joints or seasonal allergies.

• Antibacterial & Antifungal
  Traditionally used to support the immune system and help the body fight off minor infections.

• Mild Diuretic
  Can support kidney and urinary health by gently flushing excess fluids and toxins.

• Astringent Properties
  Helps tighten and tone tissues, which may aid in wound healing or digestive support.

• Allergy Support
  Some herbalists use it during spring to help the body adapt to environmental allergens.

• Rich in Nutrients
  Contains Vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants—supports general wellness and vitality.

🌸 How It’s Commonly Used

💧 Recommended Dosage

• Adults: Take 1–2 dropperfuls (approx. 30–60 drops) in a small amount of water or tea, up to 3 times daily as needed.

• Children over 12: 10–20 drops diluted in water, once or twice daily. Always consult a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider for guidance.

• Not recommended for children under 12, pregnant or nursing individuals without professional supervision.

• Added to a bit of water or tea (1–2 dropperfuls)

• Taken during allergy season or when feeling run-down

• Sometimes combined with other herbs like plantain or cleavers for detox blends

✅ Dosage Recommendations

Start with small doses, such as a few drops in water, and observe how your body responds.

⚠️ Potential Side Effects and Interactions

While generally safe, it’s wise to be aware of any personal allergies or interactions with medications.

🧊 Storage and Shelf Life

Store your tincture in a cool, dark place. Properly made, it can last for several years.

As with any herbal remedy, effects vary by person, and it’s always smart to check with a trusted herbalist or healthcare provider if you’re on medications or have health concerns.

🚀 Why We Turn It Into a Tincture

At Brooks Apothecary, we love using tinctures to capture the strength of fresh herbs in a shelf-stable, easy-to-use form. Our Purple Dead Nettle Tincture is made using high-quality alcohol to extract and preserve the beneficial compounds of the plant. This means you get all the potency of fresh nettle, available to you year-round—even when the flowers are long gone from your yard.

Just a dropperful in a bit of water or tea is enough to support your system during allergy season or when you feel like your immune system needs a little backup.

It’s one of those herbs that doesn’t shout—but shows up when you need it.

💌 Real Plant Medicine, Real Simple

The beauty of herbs like dead nettle is that they remind us that medicine doesn't always have to come from a bottle at the pharmacy. Sometimes, it’s growing right underfoot—quiet, wild, and waiting to be noticed.

Whether you're new to herbs or an experienced forager, this is one to keep in your apothecary. It may be quiet, but its support runs deep.

🌿 Ready to Try It?

Our Purple Dead Nettle Extract will be available in limited small batches starting June 2025, crafted by hand with care. This alcohol-based extract (also known as a tincture) captures the full strength of this wild herb and makes it easy to use year-round. Want a bottle for your own home apothecary? Check our shop or send us a message—we’ll set you up with what you need. 💜

🧪 Tincture vs. Extract – What's the Difference?

While the terms “tincture” and “extract” are often used interchangeably, there’s a small distinction:

• A tincture specifically refers to an herbal extract made using alcohol as the solvent.

• An extract is a broader term that includes tinctures but may also refer to extractions using glycerin, vinegar, or water.

At Brooks Apothecary, we use the term extract to emphasize the strength and purity of our alcohol-based preparation. So yes—our Purple Dead Nettle Extract is a tincture, just with a little extra clarity.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

The information in this post is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider or a qualified herbalist before starting any new herbal product—especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a health condition.

It’s essential to positively identify Purple Dead Nettle before use. Tinctures and herbal extracts are not regulated by the FDA, and effects may vary. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Brooks Apothecary does not make any medical claims and is not responsible for how this product is used. Your health is unique to you—please use all herbal remedies responsibly.