Herbal Mamas

Nettle Licorice Cold Infusion

Recipe By
Penelope Sullivan
Published on
September 2, 2026

Sometimes the simplest plants offer the deepest nourishment. This nettle and licorice infusion is a humble, steady recipe that supports the body day after day. Simple to prepare, deeply nourishing, and naturally sweet — a staple worth returning to.

The Power of Herbal Infusions

Herbal infusions are one of the most traditional and effective ways to receive the nourishment of herbs. By steeping plant material in water for an extended period, we extract vitamins, minerals, and supportive compounds in a form the body can easily assimilate. Unlike faster brewing methods, longer infusions allow the time needed to draw out a greater quantity of minerals — making this drink a gentle, nourishing tonic for daily use.

What Is a Herbal Tonic?

Herbal tonics are plants that nourish and strengthen the system and can be safely taken over longer periods.

Key characteristics of tonic herbs:

  • Nourishing — often rich in vitamins, minerals, or supportive compounds
  • Gentle — suitable for regular, long-term use
  • Cumulative — benefits build over time rather than acting immediately
  • Balancing — supports overall systems (nervous, immune, endocrine)
  • Restorative — helps bring the body back into strength and resilience

Examples of tonic herbs:

  • Nettle – mineral-rich, deeply nourishing
  • Oatstraw – supportive to the nervous system
  • Red clover – traditionally used for gentle cleansing
  • Ashwagandha – supports stress resilience (adaptogenic tonic)

Nettle & Licorice: A Beautiful Synergy

This infusion combines two powerhouse herbs.

Stinging Nettle

  • Rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, and silica
  • Deeply nourishing to the blood and overall vitality
  • Supports hair, skin, nails, and bones
  • Strengthens and tones the body over time
  • Gentle tonic for both adults and children

Licorice Root

  • Naturally sweet — enhances flavor without added sugar
  • Soothing and supportive to the digestive system
  • Harmonizes and balances herbal formulas
  • Supports the body during times of stress
  • Moistening and nourishing to tissues

The sweetness of licorice pairs perfectly with the earthiness of nettle. Ironically, licorice is over fifty times sweeter than sugar, yet research shows it can support dental health rather than harming it. This beverage has been a family favorite for years — providing a naturally sweet drink without added sugar while nourishing growing bodies.

Benefits of this Blend

  • Mineral-rich nourishment for daily vitality
  • Supports bones, teeth, hair, and nails
  • Nourishes the blood and overall robustness
  • Naturally sweet without added sugars
  • Gentle and supportive for adults and children
Join the Herbal Mamas Family

Weekly herbal wisdom and family recipes — plus my gift to you, Fevers 101.

By subscribing you agree to with our Terms of Service.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Nettle Licorice Cold Infusion

The Humble Powerhouse

A humble, steady cold infusion that nourishes the body day after day. Mineral-rich nettle pairs with naturally sweet licorice root for a deeply restorative daily tonic.

Prep Time
490
mins
Yield
4
Cups
Ingredients
1
oz
Dried nettle leaf
0.5
tsp
Dried licorice root
32
oz
Cold water
Instructions
  1. Add nettle leaf and licorice root to a quart-sized jar.
  2. Lightly moisten the herbs and let sit for 1 minute.
  3. Pour 32 oz of room-temperature water over the herbs.
  4. Cover and let steep overnight, or for 8–10 hours.
  5. Strain the herbs from the liquid.
  6. Pour and enjoy.

Sign up to receive a gift!

Sign up to get holistic health tips for your family with my special gift to you, Fevers 101. Learn traditional ways to work with this healing process, a checklist, herbal recipes and more!

By clicking Sign Up you're confirming that you agree with our Terms of Service.