Nettle leaf, also called Urtica dioica, has been used in traditional medicine for many centuries. It’s known for the stinging hairs that grow on the stems and leaves, and it can be used as a dry leaf, freeze-dried, or extracted into tablets, juices, and teas. Originally from the colder regions of northern Europe and Asia, this herbaceous shrub grows all over the world today. Stinging nettle is used in many forms, including as teas, tinctures, fluid extracts, and creams. People drink nettle leaf tea for many reasons, including its taste, stimulating or calming properties, and health benefits.