If you don’t like matcha, this blend is for you.
Because you’re not going to like nettle either. 😊
But liking it isn’t the point.
Both matcha and nettle have what people politely call a “grassy” taste. Matcha is somewhat subtle unless you're using expensive ceremonial-grade or adding milk and sweetener. Nettle, on the other hand, comes in strong. Especially if you steep it as intended, as an overnight infusion.
So why on earth would you mix them?
Because this isn’t about taste. It’s about training your palate.
If you want to learn herbs, you have to taste them.
Not once, not hidden in a recipe, but side by side, in different forms, and ideally with a journal nearby.
That’s how you figure out which plants make you feel calm, or clear-headed, or steady, and which ones you’re just never buying again because they taste terrible in everything.
You don’t have to like it.
You don’t even have to finish the cup.
But you should know what these plants actually taste like, especially when they’re paired with other strong, earthy ingredients. Matcha masks a little of nettle’s bitterness, and nettle actually deepens matcha’s flavor. Add milk, a bit of sweet, and you’ve got something that’s not quite tea, not quite tonic.
HOW TO MAKE IT
1 cup strong nettle infusion (steeped overnight, strained, reheated gently)
1/2 tsp matcha powder (sifted)
1/2 cup milk of choice
Optional: Sweetener
Whisk the matcha with your warm nettle infusion. Froth or stir in the milk. Sip slowly and take notes, on flavor, on feeling, on anything that shifts.
Try it once. That’s all.
Let me know if you taste the bitterness or the strength first. Or if you discover something new hiding in the green
Yes, this post is horrendously late.
Still have to post the last one from Week 2, and the rest of this week’s lineup is coming too.
It’s been a week (capital W), and I’m filming as I go - nothing here is pre-recorded or batch-scheduled. Just me, my herbs, and the ongoing experiment that is... trying to hold a camera steady while pouring tea into a tiny cup.
Editing is taking forever, which is what happens when you do it all yourself and refuse to outsource because “it builds character” or something equally unhelpful.
At this point, I’ve watched myself try to open an ice tray 17 times and I’m emotionally bonded to the footage. It stays.
Thanks for being patient. We’re all just steeping slowly over here.
And if you want to start your herbal journey without quitting halfway through, don’t forget that The Shit No One Tells You About Tea is available now.
It’s for the people
who feel like they’re always halfway through starting.
Who keep buying herbs but never know how to use them.
Who think they’re behind because their jars don’t match.
You’re not behind. You’re just missing the kind of guide that meets you where you already are.
Order to start where you are, and get a free herb & tea tracker (message me to let me know)!
Order here.
Dosage and Safety Considerations
The information provided in this newsletter is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Herbal practices and uses discussed are not a substitute for professional healthcare.
While herbs are natural, they are also bioactive substances, and proper dosage, preparation, and use are important. Always follow reputable dosing guidelines for each herb and consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbs, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, have known allergies, or have existing medical conditions.
Anyone experiencing severe symptoms or managing chronic health issues should seek professional guidance before using herbs.
Individual responses to herbs may vary, and no outcomes are guaranteed. The author makes no claims regarding the effectiveness, safety, or suitability of any herb for any particular person.
Readers assume all responsibility for their personal health decisions based on the information presented. The author disclaims all liability for any loss, injury, or damage allegedly arising from the use or application of the information in this newsletter.
Camille Charles is the voice behind The Minimalist Herbalist. Herbal researcher. Best-selling author. Professional over-doer of tinctures. Consumer advocate. Currently earning a doctorate in curriculum design, on a mission to make herbal education less confusing and more honest.
She believes learning about herbs should feel empowering, not overwhelming. You’ll find her distilling rose water in an Instant Pot, repurposing olive jars for cacao butter, and making overnight nettle infusions like it’s a sacred ritual. She talks way too much about womb health, nettle, and why your juicer is probably lying to you.
If there’s an herb for it, she’s tried it, and probably turned it into a teachable moment.
Tea’s brewing. Grab a cup.
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