Purple Dead Nettle (Lamium purpureum) is often mistaken for an annoying weed, but in reality, it’s a powerful medicinal plant growing freely in backyards, gardens, and meadows. With its soft purple-tinged leaves and tiny pink flowers, this member of the mint family is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing to the skin. One of the best ways to harness its healing power is by making a simple herbal cream.
Let’s explore how to make Purple Dead Nettle cream at home and why you’ll want to keep a jar of it around year-round.
🌿 What is Purple Dead Nettle?
Despite the name, Purple Dead Nettle isn’t a true nettle. It doesn’t sting and is completely safe to handle. It’s called “dead” because its leaves resemble stinging nettle, but lack the irritating hairs.
It grows abundantly in spring and early summer and is known for its:
- Antibacterial properties
- Wound-healing support
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Rich content of antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and flavonoids
🧴 How to Make Purple Dead Nettle Cream at Home
🌸 Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh Purple Dead Nettle leaves and flowers (washed and dried)
- 1/2 cup olive oil (or coconut oil, for a firmer texture)
- 1 tablespoon beeswax (for thickening the cream)
- Optional: A few drops of lavender essential oil (for extra soothing and fragrance)
- A small glass jar for storage
🔥 Instructions:
Step 1: Infuse the Oil
- Finely chop the Purple Dead Nettle.
- Place it in a small saucepan or double boiler with the olive oil.
- Gently heat the mixture on low heat for 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Be careful not to boil or burn the herbs.
