Old Granny Sweat Weed is the common name for a variety of nettle found in Maine. It is named for Ruth Harriman Sweat, who was a stewardess in the Continental army and was believed to be a witch. A pestilent weed which appeared at the turn of the 18th century was believed by her neighbors to have been a curse sent by "Old Granny Sweat" in revenge for some insult.
