Mineral Magic in a Mason Jar: How Nettle Infusions Support Midlife Health
Feeling a bit run down, foggy, or like your energy just doesn’t stretch as far as it used to? You’re not alone—and your body may be quietly waving a white flag for more minerals.
Enter: nettles. Yep, those wild leafy greens that grow like weeds in nature are actually one of the most mineral-rich herbs we can use to replenish and restore—especially during the transitions of perimenopause and menopause.
Why Nettle?
Nettle (Urtica dioica) is rich in absorbable nutrients like iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and silica. Think of it as deeply hydrating, nervous system–soothing, hormone-friendly nourishment in a jar.
Regular nettle infusions can support:
Hormone balance
Hair, skin, and nail health
Bone strength
Energy and vitality
Better sleep
Less irritability and overwhelm
It’s like a leafy green multivitamin for midlife—only better absorbed and much more affordable.
🌿 How to Make a Nettle Infusion
Making herbal infusions might seem a little witchy at first (cauldrons not required), but once you do it once, it becomes second nature—and only takes about 5 minutes!
You’ll Need:
A 1-quart Mason jar
¼ to 1 full cup of dried nettle leaf (I recommend starting with ½ cup and adjusting based on your taste and needs)
Just-boiled water
A fine mesh strainer
A lid
Instructions:
Add the dried nettle to your jar.
Pour in hot (just under boiling) water to fill the jar.
Cover with the lid and let steep for 4 hours, or overnight for a stronger infusion.
When ready, strain the liquid and compost the herbs (or use them again for a second, gentler batch!).
Store in the fridge and enjoy within 48 hours.
💧Drink 2–4 cups daily—straight, over ice, or mixed with a splash of juice or lemon if you prefer.
Bonus uses: Use the leftover infusion as a hair rinse, in your bath, or to water your plants. Nothing goes to waste!
Where to Buy Nettles
Quality matters when it comes to herbs! I recommend getting well-sourced dried nettle from Thyme Herbal Apothecary -a women and nurse-run herbal resource that prioritizes quality and sustainability.
Why This Matters in Midlife
As estrogen naturally declines, we lose some of our body's ability to hold onto minerals and stress, caffeine, blood sugar dips, and poor sleep can all make that depletion worse. Nettle infusions offer a simple, beautiful way to rebuild what’s been lost without pills, powders, or overwhelm.