Nettles have been used to make beer in many cultures and have a subtle, slightly ginger flavor and astringent properties. Use 1 to 2 oz. in the boil for bittering or steeped at the end of the boil to extract the nutrients and medicinal properties. Nettles are especially effective in treating kidney and liver problems as well as rheumatic and arthritic ailments. They are high in calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and Vitamin A, and have trace amounts of many other nutrients.