ROYAL NETTLE I GALEOPSIS TETRAHIT

The Hemp Nettle (Galeopsis tetrahit) has a symbolic and historical meaning that can vary across cultures and contexts. Here is a more detailed look at its symbolism and origin:

Features
Leaves and Stems: The leaves are opposite, toothed and may resemble those of the common nettle, but they don't stingThe stem is generally quadrangular.

Flowers: The flowers, which appear in summer, are pink to pale purple and grouped in spikes at the leaf axils. What is wonderful is that it blooms from the end of June until September, sometimes even in October more rarely.

Habitat: It prefers moist soils and shady places.

Symbolism
Protection and Purification: In some European folk traditions, Galeopsis tetrahit is associated with protective and purifying properties. Plants that resemble nettles are believed to have protective qualities against negative energies or evil influences, even though they are not stinging themselves.

Healing and Regeneration: Being used in traditional medicine, hemp nettle is sometimes seen as a symbol of healing and regeneration. The diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties of the plant are seen as ways to bring relief and revitalization.

Resilience and Adaptability: As it often grows in disturbed or humid environments, it is seen as a symbol of resilience and adaptability. Its ability to colonize varied terrains reflects strength and tenacity.

Origin and History
Etymology: The name "Galeopsis" comes from ancient Greek, where "galeos" means "shark" and "opsis" means "appearance", referring to the shape of the plant which could recall a shark because of its serrated leaves. The term "tetrahit" is derived from the Greek "tetra" meaning "four", referring to the arrangement of the flowers in a spike.

Historical Distribution: Originally native to Europe and Asia, Galeopsis tetrahit is a plant that has been widely recognized in agricultural and forestry settings. Its presence in undergrowth and fields has made it a familiar plant in rural communities.

Traditional Uses: Historically as a medicinal plant, Galeopsis tetrahit has been used in folk medicine to treat various ailments. The first written records of its use are in medieval healing practices in Europe. However, exact knowledge of its traditional uses may vary.

Culture and Folklore: In some regions, hemp nettle is integrated into local traditions and folklore, often due to its resemblance to common nettle. Its inclusion in rituals or preparations may be partly symbolic, associated with nature and protection.

In summary, hemp nettle has a special place in the history of medicinal plants and folklore, with connotations related to protection, healing, and resilience. Its traditional uses and symbolism reflect both its practical properties and its cultural importance.

Galeopsis tetrahit, or Royal Nettle, has several medicinal properties that have been recognized in traditional medicine, particularly in Europe. Here is an overview of its main therapeutic uses:

• Medicinal Properties
  Anti-inflammatory: One of the main uses of Galeopsis tetrahit is its anti-inflammatory effect. It has been used to relieve inflammation of the respiratory tract, particularly in the treatment of bronchitis, coughs, and lung infections.
• Expectorant: It is also known for its expectorant properties, helping to clear the airways and facilitating the expulsion of mucus. It has therefore been used in treatments for bronchial and pulmonary conditions.
• Diuretic: Galeopsis tetrahit is used as a diuretic, promoting the elimination of toxins through urine. This makes it a useful herb for treating urinary tract infections and for helping with general detoxification of the body.
• Tonic and revitalizing: In some traditions, hemp nettle is considered a tonic that can strengthen and revitalize the body, especially after illness or weakness. It is often associated with stimulating the digestive organs and improving digestion.
• Helps with healing: When applied externally as a poultice, Galeopsis tetrahit can be used to treat wounds and promote their healing. Its antiseptic and healing properties have been used to treat minor wounds and skin irritations.
• Modes of use
  Infusions: The leaves and flowers of the plant can be prepared as a herbal tea to treat respiratory conditions and as a diuretic.
• Decoctions: Used in decoction, the aerial parts of the plant have a more pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.
• Poultices: Crushed leaves can be applied directly to the skin to speed up wound healing or relieve local inflammation.

Galeopsis tetrahit (Royal Nettle), although mainly used for its medicinal properties, can also be incorporated into cooking, given the ease of picking as it does not sting. Here are some ideas for preparing it:

• Culinary Preparation
  Salads:

Young Leaves: Young leaves of Galeopsis tetrahit can be added to salads. Be sure to wash them well before eating. They can be mixed with other leafy greens or fresh herbs.

• Soup :

Herbal Soup: You can incorporate Galeopsis tetrahit into herbal soup. Cook the leaves with other vegetables and herbs to make a nutritious soup. Add the leaves at the end of cooking to preserve their nutrients.

• Infusions:

Herbal tea: Prepare an infusion with the dried leaves. Steep about a teaspoon of leaves in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. This herbal tea can be consumed for its soothing and diuretic properties.

• Pesto or Sauces:

Herb Pesto: Young leaves can be used to make pesto or added to sauces. Blend them with garlic, nuts, olive oil, and cheese for a tasty pesto.

• Trim :

Garnish for Dishes: Use the leaves as a garnish for various dishes, such as grilled meats or sautéed vegetables, adding a touch of herbaceous flavor.

• Preparation Tips
  Young Leaves: Use young leaves preferably, as they are more tender and have a milder flavor.
  Blanching: To reduce possible bitterness, you can blanch the leaves in boiling water for a few minutes, then plunge them into ice water before using.

• Quantities: As with all medicinal plants, it is advisable not to consume them in large quantities without medical advice.

By incorporating Galeopsis tetrahit into your cooking, you can benefit not only from its medicinal properties but also add a unique touch to your dishes.

It will be necessary:

Cold stratification:
Prepare the seeds: Clean them and, if necessary, soak them for a few hours.

• Mix: Mix the seeds with a moist substrate (sand or vermiculite).
• Condition: Put everything in an airtight bag.
• Refrigerate: Place bag in refrigerator for 4 to 12 weeks.
• Check: Make sure the substrate remains slightly moist.
• Sow: After the stratification period, sow the seeds in prepared soil.

That's all! It helps the seeds germinate.

The Royal Nettle goes through several stages of development during its growth.

Here is a general estimate of the number of days needed to reach maturity, taking into account the main stages of its life cycle:

• Germination: Seeds typically germinate within 7 to 14 days after sowing, depending on temperature and humidity conditions.
• Growth: The plant goes through a rapid growth phase. About 40 to 60 days after germination, the plants are sufficiently developed to begin flowering.
• Flowering: Flowers appear about 60 to 70 days after germination. The flowering period can last about 4 to 6 weeks.
• Maturity: The plant reaches maturity about 90 to 100 days after germination. This is the time when the flowers are fully developed and the seeds begin to form.

In summary, the king nettle is relatively easy to grow and manage, and its maturity period is quite short, which allows it to be harvest several times during the growing season.  

Our seeds are vigorous, open-pollinated and adapted to the Quebec climate.

• Species: Galeopsis tetrahit Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
• Sowing: Early March indoors, early April under cover outdoors or sow broadcast on the surface to be cultivated outdoors.
  in the spring before the last frosts on the ground in your area or towards the end of August and the beginning of September
• Seeds: 10-15 seeds per pot, final transplanting into an outdoor pot or on top of the soil around mid-May
• Sowing depth: 0.5 cm
• Germination time: 7- 20 days
• Soil: Poor, humus-rich, loose and drained
• Location: Sun and tolerates shade and cold very well
• Spacing between plants: 30-40 cm
• Height at maturity: 30-90 cm
• Maturity: 90-100 days | annual and it reseeds naturally
• Seed per envelope: +/- 100

Our seeds are guaranteed for the year of purchase.