Purple Dead Nettle

A Wonderful Weed

Harvested purple dead nettle. Notice the heart shape of the leaves and that the upper leaves have a deep purple hue.

Purple Dead Nettle

Exploring Purple Dead Nettle

Purple dead nettle (Lamium purpureum) grows like gangbusters in moist, sunny areas, spreading quickly thanks to its ability to self-pollinate. Recognizable by its square stem, heart-shaped leaves, and clusters of purple-tinged upper foliage, this plant spreads quickly thanks to its ability to self-pollinate. Originally from Europe and Asia, it has now made itself at home across every state in the U.S. Its name "dead nettle" comes from its resemblance to stinging nettles (Urtica dioica), but unlike its prickly cousin, it’s sting-free and packed with medicinal benefits. And better yet, it has no poisonous look-alikes.

This versatile plant has been used traditionally for wound healing, allergy relief, and skin care. Its astringent, antimicrobial, and vulnerary properties make it a go-to for herbal remedies, from soothing insect bites to easing joint pain. Plus, it’s a favorite of bees and ants, making it a vital part of early spring ecosystems.

Benefits of Purple Dead Nettle

• Astringent/Styptic: Helps stop bleeding, including heavy menstrual flow, when used as a tea or tincture

• Antimicrobial: Fights bacterial and fungal infections, both topically and internally

• Vulnerary: Promotes healing of cuts, bruises, rashes, and irritated skin when applied as a poultice or salve

• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling and discomfort from injuries or skin irritation.

• Antihistamine: May relieve seasonal allergy symptoms or soothe an itchy throat

• Nutrient-rich: Packed with vitamins and minerals, and antioxidants, perfect for culinary creations to nourish the body.

How to Harvest Purple Dead Nettle

Purple dead nettle is beloved by bees and ants, so harvest with care by following these simple steps:

• Choose a sunny morning once the dew has dried

• Snip the stems about two inches above ground level

• Gently tap the plants upside-down to encourage any hidden ants to move along

• Rinse briefly in cold water to remove dirt or lingering critters

• Use fresh for culinary uses or dry for medicinal uses

• Lay out to dry on a screen or paper towel, turning occasionally for even drying

Avoid roadside patches or areas where pesticides might have been used. Once dry (usually a few days), you are ready to craft your own herbal creations!

You can also enjoy purple dead nettle fresh — add it to soups, salads, pestos, or smoothies. (Though be warned — the flavor is a bit grassy and earthy. Some love it, others not so much!)

Purple Dead Nettle Pain Relief Salve

How to Use Purple Dead Nettle

• Poultice - Grind or masticate some fresh leaves until a paste is made, and then apply the paste to an irritated insect sting, bite, or small wound. Blends well with plantain and yarrow for a more potent poultice.

• Infused Oil - Purple dead nettle has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which make it an ideal option for topical use for aches, pains, itchy inflammation, and general first aid needs.

• Salve - Purple dead nettle salve is useful for various topical issues with its antibacterial and antifungal properties, it is effective for minor cuts, wounds, rashes, and skin infections. Additionally, the salve is beneficial for dry, cracked skin and can provide relief from pain related to inflamed joints, arthritis, and minor injuries. Making a combination salve with herbs such as calendula, yarrow, and plantain further increases its effectiveness.

• Tincture - Purple dead nettle tincture has mild antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. Combine the tincture with honey, and it makes an ideal throat spray to soothe itchy, scratchy sore throats.

• Infused Vinegar - The infused vinegar can be used as a hair rinse by applying it to the scalp after washing your hair. Blend with rosemary and rose petals for additional scalp-soothing benefits.

  

  Purple dead nettle laid out for drying

Purple Dead Nettle Recipes

Wild Greens Pesto

A nutrient-packed twist on classic pesto, perfect for pasta, toast, or as a dip.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh purple dead nettle leaves (rinsed and patted dry)

• 1/2 cup fresh basil, baby spinach, or parsley leaves

• 1/2 cup fresh dandelion greens, carrot greens, or chickweed

• 1/3 cup walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pine nuts

• 1/3 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or other hard cheese (optional)

• 2-3 cloves of garlic

• Splash of lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

Blend herbs, greens, nuts/seeds, garlic, and lemon juice in a food processor until finely chopped.

Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth.

Add cheese (if using), salt, and pepper, and pulse to combine.

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

"Green" Tea

A soothing tea for allergies or menstrual discomfort.

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp dried purple dead nettle (or 2 tsp fresh)

• 1 tsp dried lemon balm (or 2 tsp fresh)

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh)

• 1 cup boiling water

• Honey or lemon to taste

Place the herbs in a tea caddy, strainer, or reusable tea bag, and place them into a teacup.

Pour boiling water over the herbs and steep for 5–10 minutes.

Strain, add honey or lemon if desired, and sip slowly.

Tip: If you prefer a simple, single-herb tea, use 1 tablespoon dried or 2 tablespoons fresh herb per cup of water.

Purple Dead Nettle Bath Soak (skin soothing)

This makes a calming, skin-nourishing soak — great for itchy, irritated, or dry skin.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dried purple dead nettle

• 1/2 cup dried calendula or chamomile

• 1/2 cup Dead Sea salt

• 1/4 cup oats (optional, for extra softness)

• Muslin bag

Mix ingredients in a bowl and store in a lidded jar.

When ready to use, scoop a portion into a muslin bag.

Toss into a warm bath and soak for 20 minutes.

Purple Dead Nettle Pain Relief Salve

A healing balm for minor cuts, rashes, or joint pain.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dried purple dead nettle

• 1/4 cup dried calendula, self-heal, or plantain for extra healing power (optional)

• 1 cup carrier oil (e.g., olive, jojoba, or sweet almond oil)

• 2-3 oz beeswax pellets

• 40 drops lavender or frankincense essential oil (optional, 1% dilution)

Infuse the Oil: Fill a mason jar about half to three-quarters full with dried herbs. Add carrier oil so that herbs are well submerged, leaving about an inch of headspace. Add the lid, and allow to infuse for 4-6 weeks. Give the jar an occasional shake. Strain through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer.

Make the Salve: Melt beeswax in a double boiler set-up, then stir in the infused oil.

Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly, then add essential oil if using, and stir well. Pour into small tins or jars. Let cool completely before sealing. Apply to affected areas as needed.

Safety & Contraindications

Purple dead nettle is generally safe with no known contraindications. However, use caution if pregnant or breastfeeding, and consult a healthcare provider if unsure. Always harvest from clean, non-sprayed areas and test new remedies on a small skin patch to check for sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Purple dead nettle is more than just a weed—it’s a powerhouse of healing and a versatile ingredient for both kitchen and apothecary. Whether you try sipping its tea, soaking in it, or applying it as a salve, this humble plant offers endless ways to heal and nourish yourself. So next time you spot its purple-topped leaves in your yard, don’t pull it—harvest it and explore its wonders!