Blood-Building Pesto for Hormonal Health

This pesto calls for Nettle and Dandelion leaves, foods that are traditionally used to support reproductive health via a variety of mechanisms. Both Nettle and Dandelion leaves are considered “blood-building” and along with spinach, they’re a rich source of iron, calcium, and other minerals. The seeds used in this recipe are the seeds used in seed cycling, a common method used to support reproductive hormone balance.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of roughly chopped fresh Stinging Nettle leaves, Dandelion leaves, spinach, and any other dark leafy greens or fresh herbs you enjoy.

• 2/3 cups olive oil

• 1 cup of seeds: any combination pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, and flax (sesame and flax have the strongest flavor, you may want to add a little at first then adjust for flavor as you go). You may also use any other nuts or seeds you enjoy.

• 2-6+ cloves fresh garlic (I use a whole bulb)

• Salt to taste

• Optional: ½ cup romano or parmesan cheese, or ½ cup nutritional yeast

 Directions:

Combine ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. The fine hairs that cause the sting of the Stinging Nettle will be destroyed in the blender. If you want to be extra careful, blanch the Nettle before adding it to the blender.

Please note: Always be sure you’re absolutely positive you’re harvesting the correct plants, and be sure to harvest from places where they will be free from pesticides and other toxins, urine, etc. Always thoroughly research any herb you plan on ingesting and be sure there are no contraindications for you, especially if you’re on medication or have a medical condition, or you’re pregnant, nursing, or trying to conceive. And finally, Dandelion is in the Aster family so if you’re allergic to other Asters, you may way to avoid it.