COMMON NAME: NETTLE, common nettle, stinging nettle
LATIN NAME: Urtica dioica
FAMILY: Urticaceae
PARTS USED: Stalks and leaves, rhizomes, seeds
REGIONS: throughout the world
SYSTEM AFFECTED: urinary, respiratory, glandular, digestive
HARVESTING GUIDELINES: Harvest top six inches of plants in the spring and early summer before flowering. Harvest seeds in fall once the bundles of tiny flowers look fluffy and are drooping down toward the stem. Harvest rhizomes in spring or after first frost in autumn.
PLANT CONSTITUENTS: Vitamins A, C, E, and K, riboflavin, thiamine, and minerals (calcium, chromium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, silica, iron, zinc), protein, formic acid and histamine, and chlorophyll
ACTIONS: Astringent, Alterative, Anti-inflammatory, Galactogogue, Hemostatic, Anti-asthmatic, Rubefacient, Diuretic, Nutritive
TASTE: Salty, Astringent
ENERGY: Cooling, Drying
USES: Stinging nettles is a very potent herb with a long history of use.
Nettle is one of nature’s most remarkable nutraceuticals. It is rich in essential nutrients, including protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, and beta-carotene. Additionally, it contains vitamins A, C, D, and the B complex, all in forms that are easily absorbed by the body.
One of the standout features of stinging nettle is its natural anti-histamine and anti-inflammatory properties, which include compounds like quercetin. These properties help open restricted bronchial and nasal passages, providing relief from hay fever, allergies, and sinus issues.
Nettle also acts as a diuretic, promoting the excretion of uric acid. This makes it beneficial for addressing conditions such as gout. Moreover, it can alleviate symptoms related to benign prostate enlargement and help manage overnight incontinence associated with a weak or irritated bladder.
Beyond these benefits, nettle nourishes the kidneys and adrenal glands, making it an excellent herb for overall health. It is particularly effective for those suffering from arthritis. The anti-inflammatory compounds found in nettle, combined with its high concentrations of boron, calcium, and silicon, work together to ease pain and support the development of strong bones.
In addition to its benefits for arthritis, nettle serves as a general tonic for women’s health. Its nutrient profile supports various aspects of female well-being, making it a valuable addition to any health regimen.
Nettles are a good general tonic of the female reproductive system, for the monthly cycle, and menopause. Nettle is an Alterative, meaning it purifies the blood and assists the body in nutrient and protein assimilation, neutralization of acid, and elimination of waste. As such, it can be used to balance blood toxicity, arthritis, gout, rheumatism, eczema and skin problems caused by metabolic disorders by detoxifying the body of metabolic wastes. Nettle is recommended for pregnant, post-partum, and lactating women, and not just for its nutritive qualities for mother and child. As a hemostatic due to its high level of vitamin K, and an astringent, nettle can help reduce uterine bleeding and prevent hemorrhage after childbirth. It can also be used to reduce excessive menstrual bleeding or excessive bleeding anywhere in the body. As a galactagogue, nettle increases the quality and quantity of mother’s breast milk.
Susan Weed (1989, p. 176) raves about nettle leaves drunk as an infusion and applied as a hair rinse for “glossy, thick, vibrant hair, healthy, hard nails and clear, lustrous smooth skin.” Nettle root is lauded as a restorative tonic for weak hair or hair loss, and when applied topically, nettle acts as a rubefacient to stimulate circulation of blood to the area.
Incorporating nettle into your diet can be easy and satisfying. It can be used in teas, soups, and stir-fries or added to smoothies for an extra nutrient boost. When prepared correctly, nettle loses its sting and can be enjoyed safely.
Overall, nettle is a powerhouse herb that offers numerous health benefits. Whether you’re looking to improve your respiratory health, manage arthritis, or support kidney function, nettle can play a vital role in enhancing your well-being. Consider adding this versatile plant to your daily routine to harness its remarkable properties and enjoy the many ways it can contribute to your health.
IMPORTANT INFO..
CONTRADICTIONS: Nettle is safe, although some allergic reactions have been reported. Nettle stings may cause discomfort to the skin. Internal use may decrease the efficacy of anti-coagulant drugs
DOSAGES: Tincture: 2-5 ml (1:5 in 40%), 3 times per day Tea: Infusion of 1-3 tsp dried nettle in 1 cup boiling water, infused 10-15 minutes, 3 times per day Juice: 5 to 10 ml of fresh juice 3x per day. Seeds: 1 tsp – 1 tbsp seeds per day