What do you think?
Rate this book
Nettle Power: Forage, Feast & Nourish Yourself with This Remarkable Healing Plant
A colorful, highly accessible guide to the healing and culinary uses of nettle, a protein-packed wild plant that is a favorite of foragers and herbalists.
Nettle Power is a fascinating exploration of the many uses of nettle for food, medicine, and fiber. A plentiful wild plant with a long history of use by both European and Native American herbalists, nettle helps soothe skin conditions, strengthen bones, increase milk production in lactating mothers, restore the nervous system, purify the blood, and boost the immune system, among its many benefits. The plant's sting is easily neutralized by blanching and author Brigitte Mars shares a range of recipes for using the nutrient-dense green leaves as a tasty substitute for spinach or chard in salads, soups, and main dishes, along with healing recipes for teas, tinctures, juices, and elixirs. Colorful illustrations and curious facts and lore make this a highly browsable and useful handbook for foraging, herb, and natural health enthusiasts.
Nettle Power is a fascinating exploration of the many uses of nettle for food, medicine, and fiber. A plentiful wild plant with a long history of use by both European and Native American herbalists, nettle helps soothe skin conditions, strengthen bones, increase milk production in lactating mothers, restore the nervous system, purify the blood, and boost the immune system, among its many benefits. The plant's sting is easily neutralized by blanching and author Brigitte Mars shares a range of recipes for using the nutrient-dense green leaves as a tasty substitute for spinach or chard in salads, soups, and main dishes, along with healing recipes for teas, tinctures, juices, and elixirs. Colorful illustrations and curious facts and lore make this a highly browsable and useful handbook for foraging, herb, and natural health enthusiasts.
- GenresNonfictionCookbooks
152 pages, Paperback
Published August 27, 2024
1 person is currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Brigitte Mars
30 books8 followersBrigitte Mars is an herbalist and natural health nutritional consultant. She teaches Herbal Medicine at Naropa University and at the School of Health Mastery in Iceland. She is also a psychedelic sitter and end-of-life doula.
Mars has published many books and DVDs about natural medicine.
Mars has published many books and DVDs about natural medicine.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
February 6, 2024
What a beautiful tribute to an amazing plant!
I have been interested in the use of nettles for years, and this book is a wonderful introduction and deep dive into this plant. It grows wild on my farm, so I have a ready source of it, but I don't feel I'm using it as much as I could. Reading this book has reminded me how great fresh nettles are as an early spring foraged food source (and there are lots of great vegetarian recipes to try in this book) and as a dried tea.
In addition to culinary uses, Brigitte Mars provides lots of information about the plant, its history and traditional uses, medicinal uses, and fun facts. The book is full of gorgeous bright illustrations as well.
I recommend it for anyone interested in herbalism, foraging, and general plant knowledge!
Thank you to Netgalley and Storey publishing for the advance read e-copy. I plan to add the hard cover to my shelves when it comes out!
I have been interested in the use of nettles for years, and this book is a wonderful introduction and deep dive into this plant. It grows wild on my farm, so I have a ready source of it, but I don't feel I'm using it as much as I could. Reading this book has reminded me how great fresh nettles are as an early spring foraged food source (and there are lots of great vegetarian recipes to try in this book) and as a dried tea.
In addition to culinary uses, Brigitte Mars provides lots of information about the plant, its history and traditional uses, medicinal uses, and fun facts. The book is full of gorgeous bright illustrations as well.
I recommend it for anyone interested in herbalism, foraging, and general plant knowledge!
Thank you to Netgalley and Storey publishing for the advance read e-copy. I plan to add the hard cover to my shelves when it comes out!
September 9, 2024
5 bright green stars.
Beautiful and inspiring book, complete with bright, fun illustrations and all the resources you need to bring this powerhouse herb into your own life.
I grew up on a hobby farm, with a giant garden, chickens, a goat, dogs and a cat. My parents built our passive-solar house in the Canadian prairies and my Mom made the vast majority of everything that we ate. This has helped form who I am as person and how I live. Though I have had my fair share of western medical intervention and it has truly saved my life - I still turn to food and herbs for healing as much as possible. I would call myself a budding herbalist, though interest in nutritional health has spanned decades.
Nettles have been my favourite base of homemade (and mostly homegrown or foraged) teas for the last many years. I knew that it had a lot of healing and health benefits - but I was still blown away by just how many varied applications described for nettles in this sweet book. As I draw nearer the end of perimenopause, and have a very dear friend battling breast cancer, I now see that I will be doubling-down on my personal usage of nettles. *goes online to order some seeds...*
And while I have had many a tea made from nettles, I am less familiar with using nettles in cooking and its juiced, capsule and tincture forms. I now plan to container grow nettles going forward, so that I can partake in the healing benefits of its fresh form.
Finally, whoever compiled this book into its final view, with the stunning illustrations and friendly layout, did a magnificent job. It's a lot like sitting down on a summer patio with your most herb-knowledgable friend, and soaking up all of their hard-won knowledge!
Huge gratitude to Netgalley and Storey publishing for an e-ARC of this book, in exchange for my honest review. I will absolutely be purchasing a print copy of this book for my ongoing resources.
Beautiful and inspiring book, complete with bright, fun illustrations and all the resources you need to bring this powerhouse herb into your own life.
I grew up on a hobby farm, with a giant garden, chickens, a goat, dogs and a cat. My parents built our passive-solar house in the Canadian prairies and my Mom made the vast majority of everything that we ate. This has helped form who I am as person and how I live. Though I have had my fair share of western medical intervention and it has truly saved my life - I still turn to food and herbs for healing as much as possible. I would call myself a budding herbalist, though interest in nutritional health has spanned decades.
Nettles have been my favourite base of homemade (and mostly homegrown or foraged) teas for the last many years. I knew that it had a lot of healing and health benefits - but I was still blown away by just how many varied applications described for nettles in this sweet book. As I draw nearer the end of perimenopause, and have a very dear friend battling breast cancer, I now see that I will be doubling-down on my personal usage of nettles. *goes online to order some seeds...*
And while I have had many a tea made from nettles, I am less familiar with using nettles in cooking and its juiced, capsule and tincture forms. I now plan to container grow nettles going forward, so that I can partake in the healing benefits of its fresh form.
Finally, whoever compiled this book into its final view, with the stunning illustrations and friendly layout, did a magnificent job. It's a lot like sitting down on a summer patio with your most herb-knowledgable friend, and soaking up all of their hard-won knowledge!
Huge gratitude to Netgalley and Storey publishing for an e-ARC of this book, in exchange for my honest review. I will absolutely be purchasing a print copy of this book for my ongoing resources.
February 2, 2024
The cuteness of the cover pulls you in, but the wealth of knowledge keeps you reading. Nettle Power is all about one of the most incredible plants - Nettle!
I had no idea how resilient Nettle is or how many uses it has. At home, nettle tea has always been a go to, so I figured learning more about nettle would be helpful. Little did I know nettle has SO many more uses! Don’t let its notorious sting turn you away. From herbal remedies, beauty products (like the ancients!) and cooking recipes, nettle is so versatile. I loved learning about the benefits for allergies and inflammation. It’s great to find alternatives to OTC medicines. I look forward to planting some nettle seeds and having some Nettle Power of my own this spring!
Thank you to Storey Publishing, Storey Publishing, LLC, and NetGalley for an ARC of this beautiful book.
I had no idea how resilient Nettle is or how many uses it has. At home, nettle tea has always been a go to, so I figured learning more about nettle would be helpful. Little did I know nettle has SO many more uses! Don’t let its notorious sting turn you away. From herbal remedies, beauty products (like the ancients!) and cooking recipes, nettle is so versatile. I loved learning about the benefits for allergies and inflammation. It’s great to find alternatives to OTC medicines. I look forward to planting some nettle seeds and having some Nettle Power of my own this spring!
Thank you to Storey Publishing, Storey Publishing, LLC, and NetGalley for an ARC of this beautiful book.
February 8, 2024
I started reading this book because I was curious about the title. It turned out to be a very interesting book that talks about the health benefits of nettles, as well as how to grow, store, forage, etc. I had no idea about the health benefits of getting stung with nettles and that people purposely sting themselves for medicinal reasons! Interesting recipes including recipes for shampoos. Looking forward to trying some of the food and drinks. Thanks to Netgalley for the eARC
April 2, 2024
e-Arc Provided by Netgalley and Storey Publishing, thank you.
First of all, beautiful book, colourful with lots of images, it's nice to look at, and enhances the experience.
The content of the book is split between the History and uses of nettle, how to store use as dye, etc, and a second part with recipes.
I found it inspiring and educative, it made me want to try some of the tips, I might just go out to get some nettle soon !
This is a fast read, if you're lightly curious about nettle, it's worth a read, but don't expect to read about the taxonomy of the plant, this is not a science book.
Overall fun read !
First of all, beautiful book, colourful with lots of images, it's nice to look at, and enhances the experience.
The content of the book is split between the History and uses of nettle, how to store use as dye, etc, and a second part with recipes.
I found it inspiring and educative, it made me want to try some of the tips, I might just go out to get some nettle soon !
This is a fast read, if you're lightly curious about nettle, it's worth a read, but don't expect to read about the taxonomy of the plant, this is not a science book.
Overall fun read !
August 27, 2024
4⭐️
What an interesting herb! I was only vaguely familiar with “stinging nettle” prior to reading this, but always interested in learning more about the healing power of plants (often times considered weeds!).
🌿 The author has several decades of experience for growing and using nettle - for everything from culinary and medicinal to cosmetic and household uses.
🦄 The book starts with a bit of history, use in folklore, and Biblical references. Then it goes into growing, harvesting and foraging, as well as types of nettle you can find in your area. (A special note that dead nettle and white nettle are not related to the Urtica family, as they are related to the mint family - so read this section before buying!)
👩🏻🌾 I was fascinated to learn that it’s such a great garden companion plant, acting as both a beneficial fertilizer and natural insect repellant. Also interesting to learn about its preservative benefits, and use in textiles and natural dyed yarn.
💊 The medicinal chapter covers both external and internal benefits for such a vast array of ailments like bone health, arthritis, respiratory, blood sugar, digestion, immune system, kidney, liver, gall bladder, detox, hormone regulation, and much more! It includes a variety of recipes for teas, tinctures, juices and capsules. I am very curious to try some of the teas!
🧖🏻♀️ The cosmetic chapter covers use for skin and hair to help balance oily conditions, curb appetite and acne, and deter fungal and bacterial growth. It offers recipes for beneficial face masks, foot soaks, shampoo, compresses, etc.
🍲 The final chapter is dedicated to cooking with nettle, complete with a nutrition chart and almost 50 recipes ranging from breakfast and entrees to baked goods and beverages. Even if you aren’t much of a chef, the nettle wine or beer might grab your attention.
Storey Publishing has brought yet another great educational topic to the world, laid out in a bright and colorful spread with an easy-to-follow format. I knocked off a star for writing, as I t felt a bit choppy and less passionate than I prefer for such topics. But overall a great informative read and I was surprised to learn of such a wide variety of benefits of this little plant. I’ll for sure be looking to add this to my medicinal and vegetable garden!
Thanks to NetGalley, Storey Publishing, and Brigitte Mars for providing me with a complimentary ARC to review!
What an interesting herb! I was only vaguely familiar with “stinging nettle” prior to reading this, but always interested in learning more about the healing power of plants (often times considered weeds!).
🌿 The author has several decades of experience for growing and using nettle - for everything from culinary and medicinal to cosmetic and household uses.
🦄 The book starts with a bit of history, use in folklore, and Biblical references. Then it goes into growing, harvesting and foraging, as well as types of nettle you can find in your area. (A special note that dead nettle and white nettle are not related to the Urtica family, as they are related to the mint family - so read this section before buying!)
👩🏻🌾 I was fascinated to learn that it’s such a great garden companion plant, acting as both a beneficial fertilizer and natural insect repellant. Also interesting to learn about its preservative benefits, and use in textiles and natural dyed yarn.
💊 The medicinal chapter covers both external and internal benefits for such a vast array of ailments like bone health, arthritis, respiratory, blood sugar, digestion, immune system, kidney, liver, gall bladder, detox, hormone regulation, and much more! It includes a variety of recipes for teas, tinctures, juices and capsules. I am very curious to try some of the teas!
🧖🏻♀️ The cosmetic chapter covers use for skin and hair to help balance oily conditions, curb appetite and acne, and deter fungal and bacterial growth. It offers recipes for beneficial face masks, foot soaks, shampoo, compresses, etc.
🍲 The final chapter is dedicated to cooking with nettle, complete with a nutrition chart and almost 50 recipes ranging from breakfast and entrees to baked goods and beverages. Even if you aren’t much of a chef, the nettle wine or beer might grab your attention.
Storey Publishing has brought yet another great educational topic to the world, laid out in a bright and colorful spread with an easy-to-follow format. I knocked off a star for writing, as I t felt a bit choppy and less passionate than I prefer for such topics. But overall a great informative read and I was surprised to learn of such a wide variety of benefits of this little plant. I’ll for sure be looking to add this to my medicinal and vegetable garden!
Thanks to NetGalley, Storey Publishing, and Brigitte Mars for providing me with a complimentary ARC to review!
October 8, 2024
A book about the humble nettle – yes, that stinging nettle you grew to fear as a youngster and dislike to this day, especially if you're trying to get rid of a patch of it – that plugs its copious virtues to the extent it sounds like a parody. We learn what it is and what to do with it, before returning in much depth to its medicinal qualities, and it seems there is not a single thing it cannot help with, from our thyroid to our piles, and from our skin to our lungs. There are so many ways to treat it and to take it that it is a surprise it isn't the cure for our old covid friend – I mean, it can treat arsenic poison and probably replace ritalin, after all. At one point it's a diuretic of great renown, the next it helps shrink the male prostrate to stop us men needing a wee at night.
But ignore all the "nettle is considered a -" herbalism (and ignore the author's dedication, whose mentioned names are enough to make you think this a cod-hippie skit), and you get so much more on the subject than you'd ever thought possible, from the farm animal feed benefits of nettles to the use of them in love-making (for us humans, not the farm animals). All the medicinal applications are revisited (this is on the repetitive side, that's for sure, using the same quote from Les Mis twice) before we hit the recipes, and it's here my eyebrows raise again.
I know in a soup like nettle soup there is no draining away or filtering of anything – you cook it all up, blend, and consume, so everything in the pan ends up in the gullet. But I really don't see any benefit in simmering nettles for 25 or 30 minutes as suggested here. Being a fan of Atomic Shrimp on utube and wanting to try emulating his "expensive" tasting nettle soup, I once did what he said, which was to add the nettles for the last five minutes to wilt them before blending. And I can't see that bettered by over-cooking, letting all the nutrients and benefits and colour leach out.
I can't judge the author's breakfast nettle dishes, nor her nettle arancini, and she certainly has more recipes than I thought to expect. But it's what we don't get here that completed the eye movements. We get pages of references, yes, and talk of her working with nettles and consuming nettles and self-flagellating with nettles for decades, but there's not a single word of credentials. I saw what kind of university employs her over in Canada, and that was enough, but I had to check for myself – the early file I saw this book as certainly didn't flag any science background, any respected dietician teaching, or anything else to assure the novice before treading this path.
Ultimately I think that yes, nettles are probably superb, yes, nettle soup is amazing and tasty, and indeed comes with the flavour of "expensiveness", but this book never once did anything to assuage my scepticism about it. It was scepticism I never wanted to have, and yes I am a complete hypocrite in following a utube channel's advice more than that published here, but that is, if you don't mind, what I will continue to do.
But ignore all the "nettle is considered a -" herbalism (and ignore the author's dedication, whose mentioned names are enough to make you think this a cod-hippie skit), and you get so much more on the subject than you'd ever thought possible, from the farm animal feed benefits of nettles to the use of them in love-making (for us humans, not the farm animals). All the medicinal applications are revisited (this is on the repetitive side, that's for sure, using the same quote from Les Mis twice) before we hit the recipes, and it's here my eyebrows raise again.
I know in a soup like nettle soup there is no draining away or filtering of anything – you cook it all up, blend, and consume, so everything in the pan ends up in the gullet. But I really don't see any benefit in simmering nettles for 25 or 30 minutes as suggested here. Being a fan of Atomic Shrimp on utube and wanting to try emulating his "expensive" tasting nettle soup, I once did what he said, which was to add the nettles for the last five minutes to wilt them before blending. And I can't see that bettered by over-cooking, letting all the nutrients and benefits and colour leach out.
I can't judge the author's breakfast nettle dishes, nor her nettle arancini, and she certainly has more recipes than I thought to expect. But it's what we don't get here that completed the eye movements. We get pages of references, yes, and talk of her working with nettles and consuming nettles and self-flagellating with nettles for decades, but there's not a single word of credentials. I saw what kind of university employs her over in Canada, and that was enough, but I had to check for myself – the early file I saw this book as certainly didn't flag any science background, any respected dietician teaching, or anything else to assure the novice before treading this path.
Ultimately I think that yes, nettles are probably superb, yes, nettle soup is amazing and tasty, and indeed comes with the flavour of "expensiveness", but this book never once did anything to assuage my scepticism about it. It was scepticism I never wanted to have, and yes I am a complete hypocrite in following a utube channel's advice more than that published here, but that is, if you don't mind, what I will continue to do.
August 14, 2024
You hurt yourself with a plant during your mountain exploration, and it adds to your fear, serving as a warning to stay aware of the dangers in nature, which is not always as mesmerizing as it appears. You take a picture of the dangerous plant and vow to avoid it forever. Even after the sting, the memory of the lesson lingers and continues to cause discomfort. Flash forward to this book, where the picture resembles every graphic within its pages. Yes, it is a nettle plant. Even the locals of the mountains consider it a source of punishment and an irritating weed in their fields. You can’t believe that the same plant is used to make beer!
In an era where information is easily accessible with just one click, books like this remind you that true knowledge is still found within their covers. If you really want to understand something, the information you seek may not be on the first two or three pages of a search engine. When you read the book, you're expected to review its contents, but I am so fascinated by this topic and the author’s introduction—perhaps due to my personal experiences—that even after reading the book a week ago, I am still processing the idea that not every sting is inherently bad.
Focusing on the book's contents, the information and experiences it elaborates on are exceptional, especially if you've seen the plant. Interestingly, although the book is filled with graphics on almost every page, it contains no pictures of the plant itself. Therefore, if you want to recognize the plant during your trek in the woods, you need to understand it from the inside out. The book helps you achieve that wonderfully. The juice from this plant not only heals its own sting but can also be used to cure other insect and animal stings. The folklore section helps connect the dots, revealing that you may have known about this plant all along but not from this perspective. Beyond paper and nets (yes, nettles can literally be used to make anything!), its medicinal properties are noteworthy. Further practical studies and references supporting the medicinal use of nettle would be valuable for those interested in using this plant as a remedy.
The book’s graphics attempt to give it a modern touch but sometimes fail to match the level of content. They could be more refined to elevate the book's content and potential, especially the cover illustrations, which initially only display a graphic of a nettle leaf.
This book will gain significance as more people seek to understand that mysterious sting! I really like this book and would recommend it to anyone planning an adventure trip. Thank you, Brigitte Mars, for this wonderful treasure!
In an era where information is easily accessible with just one click, books like this remind you that true knowledge is still found within their covers. If you really want to understand something, the information you seek may not be on the first two or three pages of a search engine. When you read the book, you're expected to review its contents, but I am so fascinated by this topic and the author’s introduction—perhaps due to my personal experiences—that even after reading the book a week ago, I am still processing the idea that not every sting is inherently bad.
Focusing on the book's contents, the information and experiences it elaborates on are exceptional, especially if you've seen the plant. Interestingly, although the book is filled with graphics on almost every page, it contains no pictures of the plant itself. Therefore, if you want to recognize the plant during your trek in the woods, you need to understand it from the inside out. The book helps you achieve that wonderfully. The juice from this plant not only heals its own sting but can also be used to cure other insect and animal stings. The folklore section helps connect the dots, revealing that you may have known about this plant all along but not from this perspective. Beyond paper and nets (yes, nettles can literally be used to make anything!), its medicinal properties are noteworthy. Further practical studies and references supporting the medicinal use of nettle would be valuable for those interested in using this plant as a remedy.
The book’s graphics attempt to give it a modern touch but sometimes fail to match the level of content. They could be more refined to elevate the book's content and potential, especially the cover illustrations, which initially only display a graphic of a nettle leaf.
This book will gain significance as more people seek to understand that mysterious sting! I really like this book and would recommend it to anyone planning an adventure trip. Thank you, Brigitte Mars, for this wonderful treasure!
April 15, 2024
I like this book. It does need some editing though. The resources provided to back up the authors claims are mostly from the 1990's. I'd like to see newer sources and more sources that are not other authors books. I'd like to see some clinical studies and double blind tests. This would add more validity to the claims. As it stands now, the book comes across as a bit shady with questionable claims.
Including quotes from long dead philosophers, poets, herbalists, artists and like is not convincing to me. I'm not saying they are wrong, but I'm not saying they are right either. On the topic of those who have come long before us, the author also provides some historical information regarding nettles. The history she provides about nettles is enjoyable, but not necessarily factual.
I also would like to see more recipes for topical treatments.
The food recipes are mostly unusable to me as they tend to include ingredients I no longer consume in order to manage my Endometriosis. However, I understand that I'm the minority in this area and I believe that most folks will find a great many of these recipes highly enjoyable.
The author even provides basic guidance on using nettle as a dye plant. Being a natural grower and one who dyes natural fibers with plant based dyes, I'm more than pleased that this is included in her book.
If you've never made your own tincture, Brigitte Mars shows you just how easy it is. You have the option of using either an alcohol base or glycerine. Personally, I prefer to use organic glycerine as I find organic alcohol tinctures rather nasty, but I can choke them down. Glycerine is naturally sweet and is wonderful if making tinctures for kids or if you need to avoid alcohol.
Final note:
I'm not a huge fan of the childish artwork. Some of it I like. It's mostly the artwork of the people I find off putting. That aside, at least one full color photo of an actual nettle plant would be great for those looking to forage. How fun would it be to have a full color photo of a nettle plant as a centerfold?
In summary, I plan to add this informative book to my shelves, hopefully when it comes out.
I received an advanced readers e-copy (ARC) of this book from Negalley, Brigitte Mars and Storey Publishing for an honest review.
Full Review
Including quotes from long dead philosophers, poets, herbalists, artists and like is not convincing to me. I'm not saying they are wrong, but I'm not saying they are right either. On the topic of those who have come long before us, the author also provides some historical information regarding nettles. The history she provides about nettles is enjoyable, but not necessarily factual.
I also would like to see more recipes for topical treatments.
The food recipes are mostly unusable to me as they tend to include ingredients I no longer consume in order to manage my Endometriosis. However, I understand that I'm the minority in this area and I believe that most folks will find a great many of these recipes highly enjoyable.
The author even provides basic guidance on using nettle as a dye plant. Being a natural grower and one who dyes natural fibers with plant based dyes, I'm more than pleased that this is included in her book.
If you've never made your own tincture, Brigitte Mars shows you just how easy it is. You have the option of using either an alcohol base or glycerine. Personally, I prefer to use organic glycerine as I find organic alcohol tinctures rather nasty, but I can choke them down. Glycerine is naturally sweet and is wonderful if making tinctures for kids or if you need to avoid alcohol.
Final note:
I'm not a huge fan of the childish artwork. Some of it I like. It's mostly the artwork of the people I find off putting. That aside, at least one full color photo of an actual nettle plant would be great for those looking to forage. How fun would it be to have a full color photo of a nettle plant as a centerfold?
In summary, I plan to add this informative book to my shelves, hopefully when it comes out.
I received an advanced readers e-copy (ARC) of this book from Negalley, Brigitte Mars and Storey Publishing for an honest review.
Full Review
August 24, 2024
Book Review: Nettle Power: Forage, Feast & Nourish Yourself with This Remarkable Healing Plant
Rating: 5 Stars
I recently had the pleasure of reviewing "Nettle Power by Brigitte Mars", it was nothing short of a revelation! I’ve always been a bit curious about foraging and herbalism, but this book opened my eyes to the incredible world of nettles—who knew these prickly plants could be so versatile and beneficial?
In Nettle Power, Brigitte Mars presents a vibrant and accessible guide to the healing and culinary uses of nettle. This protein-packed wild plant has a rich history of usage among both European and Native American herbalists. The book details how nettles can soothe skin conditions, strengthen bones, boost the immune system, and even help lactating mothers increase milk production. It’s astonishing to think that such a seemingly simple plant can offer so many health benefits!
What I found particularly engaging was how Mars not only delves into the plant's medicinal properties but also provides a plethora of delicious recipes. From using the nutrient-dense nettle leaves as a substitute for spinach in salads to crafting teas, tinctures, and elixirs, the culinary possibilities are endless! The sting of nettles is easily neutralized by blanching, making them a safe and tasty addition to various dishes.
The layout of the book is fantastic—it's colorful and filled with gorgeous illustrations that bring each page to life. I loved how Mars included interesting historical tidbits and traditional uses alongside fun facts about nettles. It makes for not just a practical guide but also an enjoyable read that you can’t help but browse through again and again.
In summary, Nettle Power is a wonderful introduction and deep dive into the world of nettles. Whether you're an experienced forager, a budding herbalist, or simply someone interested in gardening and natural health, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge. If you’re looking to expand your culinary repertoire while harnessing the incredible healing properties of nature, I highly recommend giving this book a read. Trust me—you’ll never look at nettles the same way again!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: 5 Stars
I recently had the pleasure of reviewing "Nettle Power by Brigitte Mars", it was nothing short of a revelation! I’ve always been a bit curious about foraging and herbalism, but this book opened my eyes to the incredible world of nettles—who knew these prickly plants could be so versatile and beneficial?
In Nettle Power, Brigitte Mars presents a vibrant and accessible guide to the healing and culinary uses of nettle. This protein-packed wild plant has a rich history of usage among both European and Native American herbalists. The book details how nettles can soothe skin conditions, strengthen bones, boost the immune system, and even help lactating mothers increase milk production. It’s astonishing to think that such a seemingly simple plant can offer so many health benefits!
What I found particularly engaging was how Mars not only delves into the plant's medicinal properties but also provides a plethora of delicious recipes. From using the nutrient-dense nettle leaves as a substitute for spinach in salads to crafting teas, tinctures, and elixirs, the culinary possibilities are endless! The sting of nettles is easily neutralized by blanching, making them a safe and tasty addition to various dishes.
The layout of the book is fantastic—it's colorful and filled with gorgeous illustrations that bring each page to life. I loved how Mars included interesting historical tidbits and traditional uses alongside fun facts about nettles. It makes for not just a practical guide but also an enjoyable read that you can’t help but browse through again and again.
In summary, Nettle Power is a wonderful introduction and deep dive into the world of nettles. Whether you're an experienced forager, a budding herbalist, or simply someone interested in gardening and natural health, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge. If you’re looking to expand your culinary repertoire while harnessing the incredible healing properties of nature, I highly recommend giving this book a read. Trust me—you’ll never look at nettles the same way again!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
July 1, 2024
This is a vibrant and colourful book with lovely illustrations. I devoured it in an afternoon.
The book gives a history and botanical description of nettles, and goes on to talk about their healing and nourishing benefits, as well as their uses in crafting and their place in folklore.
There's a section on the benefits for gardeners, which I found very interesting and I'll be attempting to make a fertiliser using nettles. They're also vital for certain species of butterflies, which I didn't know.
Of course, there's plenty of focus on the healing virtues of nettles, as well as the benefits of their stings. I'm particularly interested in their uses for arthritis, sciatica and menopause, but the list of ailments they're said to help with is extensive.
Some of the ideas in the book are very practical, and there are tips for harvesting, using and storing nettles. Some parts I found a little extreme - using nettles to sting certain body parts before being intimate, for example.
There's plenty of advice on making and using nettle medicine, including teas, juices and syrups. Their use in beauty treatments was of interest to me as well, and there are recipes for shampoo and hair treatments that I'd be curious to try.
The section that most interested me was about cooking with nettles. There's an interesting breakdown of the nutritional benefits, as well as vitamin levels, and the recipes range from crêpes to condiments, soufflés and even nettle curry.
In all, this is a really interesting book and I've come away with some new knowledge and some ideas of what I'd like to try. Good thing I have a large nettle patch at the top of my garden!
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for sending me an advance copy of the book to read and review.
The book gives a history and botanical description of nettles, and goes on to talk about their healing and nourishing benefits, as well as their uses in crafting and their place in folklore.
There's a section on the benefits for gardeners, which I found very interesting and I'll be attempting to make a fertiliser using nettles. They're also vital for certain species of butterflies, which I didn't know.
Of course, there's plenty of focus on the healing virtues of nettles, as well as the benefits of their stings. I'm particularly interested in their uses for arthritis, sciatica and menopause, but the list of ailments they're said to help with is extensive.
Some of the ideas in the book are very practical, and there are tips for harvesting, using and storing nettles. Some parts I found a little extreme - using nettles to sting certain body parts before being intimate, for example.
There's plenty of advice on making and using nettle medicine, including teas, juices and syrups. Their use in beauty treatments was of interest to me as well, and there are recipes for shampoo and hair treatments that I'd be curious to try.
The section that most interested me was about cooking with nettles. There's an interesting breakdown of the nutritional benefits, as well as vitamin levels, and the recipes range from crêpes to condiments, soufflés and even nettle curry.
In all, this is a really interesting book and I've come away with some new knowledge and some ideas of what I'd like to try. Good thing I have a large nettle patch at the top of my garden!
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for sending me an advance copy of the book to read and review.
February 22, 2024
This is a gorgeous book. Visually stunning! The art in it is so captivating, the colors, the repetition of shapes, I absolutely love it!
I learned a lot about folk remedies and medicinal uses around nettle. I think this is an incredibly useful book and will definitely be implementing some of what I learned. Delicious recipes, medicines, tea, tinctures, all great stuff. Nettle really does seem to be a heal all, and the other interesting facts about other herbs and how they combine with nettle to help the body.
I did have some confusing moments at the beginning when the author stated that common nettle is not native to the Americas, and then immediately followed that up with Indigenous uses of nettle from the Americas. It was later cleared up- there are over 50 species of nettle! But maybe some of that confusion could have been avoided in the first place.
I would definitely recommend this book for anyone in my job, as teaching about the adaptations of nettle and nettle tea is part of our curriculum. And to anyone who appreciates really gorgeous graphic design. I’m excited to see the finished book when it comes out in August.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I learned a lot about folk remedies and medicinal uses around nettle. I think this is an incredibly useful book and will definitely be implementing some of what I learned. Delicious recipes, medicines, tea, tinctures, all great stuff. Nettle really does seem to be a heal all, and the other interesting facts about other herbs and how they combine with nettle to help the body.
I did have some confusing moments at the beginning when the author stated that common nettle is not native to the Americas, and then immediately followed that up with Indigenous uses of nettle from the Americas. It was later cleared up- there are over 50 species of nettle! But maybe some of that confusion could have been avoided in the first place.
I would definitely recommend this book for anyone in my job, as teaching about the adaptations of nettle and nettle tea is part of our curriculum. And to anyone who appreciates really gorgeous graphic design. I’m excited to see the finished book when it comes out in August.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
July 10, 2024
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC!
Highly readable, informative, and well-designed, Nettle Power is an accessible addition to any herbalist's library. Although I don't think you necessarily need to be interested in herbal medicine to enjoy Mars' latest work—anyone interested in native ecology and becoming more mindful of the plant world that surrounds us will have a great time reading and learning from Nettle Power.
Many works on medicinal plants can over-promise... and sometimes, Mars drifts towards the "[x plant] is the lost cure for everything!" camp. But I think she mostly avoids over-promising results to her audience. For example, Mars does not claim nettle can help digestive AND inflammatory AND cardiovascular issues because it is a wildcard miracle herb. Instead, she talks about nettle's documented effects on blood, and then discusses how this property might end up assisting with digestive/inflammatory/cardiovascular issues, etc. It's a small thing, but it matters, and I appreciate the dual commitment to sticking with proven and studied results while also discussing the historical wisdom behind its traditional uses.
In short: I will definitely be adding some nettles to my herb patch next spring.
Highly readable, informative, and well-designed, Nettle Power is an accessible addition to any herbalist's library. Although I don't think you necessarily need to be interested in herbal medicine to enjoy Mars' latest work—anyone interested in native ecology and becoming more mindful of the plant world that surrounds us will have a great time reading and learning from Nettle Power.
Many works on medicinal plants can over-promise... and sometimes, Mars drifts towards the "[x plant] is the lost cure for everything!" camp. But I think she mostly avoids over-promising results to her audience. For example, Mars does not claim nettle can help digestive AND inflammatory AND cardiovascular issues because it is a wildcard miracle herb. Instead, she talks about nettle's documented effects on blood, and then discusses how this property might end up assisting with digestive/inflammatory/cardiovascular issues, etc. It's a small thing, but it matters, and I appreciate the dual commitment to sticking with proven and studied results while also discussing the historical wisdom behind its traditional uses.
In short: I will definitely be adding some nettles to my herb patch next spring.
May 5, 2024
Nettle Power by Brigitte Mars did not disappoint with the background of nettle history, uses, remedies, cautions, and recipes. This was more of a comprehensive guide than I thought it would be in a good way. Appreciate the effort put into this to break apart so many concepts into digestible portions to retain. If you're looking at how nettle can help your daily wellness this book is wonderful to support your journey.
This book does the following:
-Background on Nettle
-How to grow and harvest Nettle
-Medicinal Properties
-Making and using Nettle Medicine
-Cosmetic Uses
-Ways to cook with Nettle
There is a lot of information that I think only adds to the value of looking back on this book. I did take my time with this book as I wanted to absorb the information and come back to it which I appreciate. This would be wonderful to have on hand in your home or kitchen. The recipes for medicinal and cooking were very simple to follow along with. Appreciate the graphics as well - the little touches are great.
Big thanks to Netgalley, Brigitte Mars, and Storey Publishing for the ARC.
This book does the following:
-Background on Nettle
-How to grow and harvest Nettle
-Medicinal Properties
-Making and using Nettle Medicine
-Cosmetic Uses
-Ways to cook with Nettle
There is a lot of information that I think only adds to the value of looking back on this book. I did take my time with this book as I wanted to absorb the information and come back to it which I appreciate. This would be wonderful to have on hand in your home or kitchen. The recipes for medicinal and cooking were very simple to follow along with. Appreciate the graphics as well - the little touches are great.
Big thanks to Netgalley, Brigitte Mars, and Storey Publishing for the ARC.
April 16, 2024
We love nettles. I have two heaping baking sheets of them in my kitchen right now, and they’re something we forage a ton of every spring especially. I mostly use them in tinctures and teas for healing because of their incredible health benefits, and I also crumble dried nettles into soups, casseroles and even meatballs. My daughter’s favorite smoothie when she was little was fresh nettles with frozen pineapple, water and a banana. So most of the information in this fun book wasn’t new to me, but I really enjoyed it. It was an excellent reminder of how incredibly beneficial nettles are, and I loved the variety of recipes at the end. I would have liked some photos and nutritional information for the recipes but I understand that this isn’t that kind of book. The illustrations are colorful and fun, and I’m looking forward to trying some of the recipes this week.
I read a temporary digital copy of this book for review.
I read a temporary digital copy of this book for review.
July 27, 2025
I am in awe of nettle, what is commonly considered a weed, after reading Nettle Power. I never would have guessed that the weed that stung me as a child is actually a multifaceted healing plant.
I recently heard someone say, "Before getting annoyed by weeds, try and understand what they are trying to do and how they benefit the environment." I understand that sentiment even more now after this book.
The one thing I would have changed would have been to have all the older sources and folklore at the start of the book. Then as things progressed, I would have cited within the text some newer, evidence-based sources. The author does refer to multiple sources, however, it is not incredibly clear while reading what information comes from where. I wasn't quite sure if some of the uses were older traditions that haven't been vetted or if they have been scientifically tested.
I recently heard someone say, "Before getting annoyed by weeds, try and understand what they are trying to do and how they benefit the environment." I understand that sentiment even more now after this book.
The one thing I would have changed would have been to have all the older sources and folklore at the start of the book. Then as things progressed, I would have cited within the text some newer, evidence-based sources. The author does refer to multiple sources, however, it is not incredibly clear while reading what information comes from where. I wasn't quite sure if some of the uses were older traditions that haven't been vetted or if they have been scientifically tested.
Want to Read
February 3, 2024First, I’ll have to say that what intrigued me to review this book was the cover & the title.
I’ve heard of the nettle plant and have had different teas or body care products that used nettle in some way, but I’ve never had an in depth break down of the nettle plant like I was able to read in this book.
Even the tidbit about how if you’re pricked by this plan and get some type of rash from it, there’s still health benefits that you’ll gain from that prick!! Who would have known!?
I would def recommend this book to anyone studying herbs or working with plant medicine.
I volunteered to read this ARC through NetGalley.
I’ve heard of the nettle plant and have had different teas or body care products that used nettle in some way, but I’ve never had an in depth break down of the nettle plant like I was able to read in this book.
Even the tidbit about how if you’re pricked by this plan and get some type of rash from it, there’s still health benefits that you’ll gain from that prick!! Who would have known!?
I would def recommend this book to anyone studying herbs or working with plant medicine.
I volunteered to read this ARC through NetGalley.
November 4, 2024
A fascinating book on the many uses of nettles for food and green remedies
Did you know that nettles can soothe skin conditions, strengthen bones, restore the nervous system as well as boost the immune system and provide better gut health
Also did you know that you can neutralise the nettle’s sting by blanching
The author shares a range of recipes including using as a tasty substitute for spinach in salads, soups and main dishes, as well as healing recipes for teas, tinctures and juices
Discover the wisdom of this wild weed and truly connect with its healing power
Thanks @brigitte.mars @littlebrownpublishing & @netgalley for the interesting read
Did you know that nettles can soothe skin conditions, strengthen bones, restore the nervous system as well as boost the immune system and provide better gut health
Also did you know that you can neutralise the nettle’s sting by blanching
The author shares a range of recipes including using as a tasty substitute for spinach in salads, soups and main dishes, as well as healing recipes for teas, tinctures and juices
Discover the wisdom of this wild weed and truly connect with its healing power
Thanks @brigitte.mars @littlebrownpublishing & @netgalley for the interesting read
February 2, 2024
This book does a very thorough job teaching about nettle. The values of nettle, how to grow, harvest, and forage nettle. The author discusses medicinal properties, making, and using nettle medicine. There are cosmetic and cooking with nettle recipes.
July 21, 2024
This book was such a lovely look into nettles and their many benefits. It included so many other facts about their history, how to harvest, how to dry and store, etc. I love nettles and this book made me love them more. Thank you Net Galley and Brigitte Mars for the opportunity to read this ARC.
January 6, 2025
It feels weird to rate a cookbook, but this was so informative and fun! The organization of info and the significance of Nettles as a worldwide healing herb was relayed perfectly. Utterly digestible.
July 9, 2024
Really interesting book about this awesome plant. Got some ideas for things to make at the tea shop I work at.
October 25, 2024
I would like to thank Netgalley and Storey Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Very colourful and full of information and tips.
Very colourful and full of information and tips.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews